Despite the adoption of the Declaration 72 years ago, human rights are still being violated across the world. What is more, the international community has faced new challenges in this area due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The unprecedented health crisis is sometimes used as a pretext to curtail human rights, including the rights of the most vulnerable groups and those living in military conflict areas. Therefore, this year’s Human Rights Day celebration focuses on ensuring that human rights are subject to special protection after the pandemic and building the foundation of a better future.

The protection of human rights is Poland’s priority, and it particularly stands up for the rights of the most vulnerable. Despite the pandemic-related limitations, 2020 has seen many Polish initiatives to further human rights, and they will continue in the years to come.

Being the UN Human Rights Council member this year and for the next two years, Poland is given a unique opportunity to pursue this goal. Our country uses its Council membership to persistently support full implementation of human rights, especially the rights of children, disabled people or religious minorities.

Poland also continues its struggle to develop civil society in places where its activity is hindered or brutally quashed. We strongly appeal for the protection of civil society in Belarus, which insists on respecting its basic rights, including the freedom of opinion, expression, and assembly. 

It should be recalled that in November 2020, Minister Zbigniew Rau hosted the international Ministerial to Advance Freedom of Religion or Belief. Moreover, every year, Poland’s Foreign Minister awards an individual or an organisation the Pro Dignitate Humana prize for their engagement in human rights protection. This year’s laureate, a Somali non-governmental organisation – the Elman Peace and Human Rights Centre, was honoured for their efforts to ensure a lasting peace and support marginalised social groups, as well as counteracting radicalisation and brutal religious extremism.

More information on this year’s celebration of Human Rights Day is available at the UN website: www.un.org/en/observances/human-rights-day

MFA Press Office

Fot. Tymon Markowski/MFA