Human Rights

This is a HUGE topic so here is a general idea of what it is all about.

What are Human Rights?

The United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights states, "All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood."[1]

What are the Geneva Conventions?

The Geneva Conventions consist of four treaties which focus on limiting violence and protecting civilians and soldiers during times of war. They lay down the law for humanitarian concerns and set the standards for the treatment of non-combatants and prisoners of war. The first Geneva Convention dates back to 1864 and it has been expanded and regenerated several times since.[2]

Why is it important today?

Since September 11 and the onset of the War in Iraq, human rights has become an increasingly important issue. Violations of the Geneva Conventions and the inhumane treatment of prisoners of war have become harsh day-to-day realities. By reaffirming the Geneva Conventions we can ensure the humane treatments of all people during times of war.

What can I do?

Raising awareness among your friends, family, and community members is a great start! Approach someone in your school about making the Geneva Conventions a required part of your history course. Facilitate a discussion at the next debate team meeting. Start a human rights club at school. You can help as an individual by writing letters to government officials (President, Senators and Representatives in the U.S.) and asking them to support the reaffirmation of the Geneva Conventions.[3]

Organizations working towards stopping the violations of human rights

Amnesty International http://www.amnesty.org/
Human Rights Watch http://www.hrw.org/
World Organisation Against Torture http://www.omct.org/

Sources

1 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_rights#_note-0
2 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geneva_convention
3 http://www.supportgenevaconventions.info/