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International Human Rights DayA Message from the General Secretary of CCA on International Human Rights Day 10 December 2005 As we are commemorating the International Human Rights Day this year on 10 December 2005, let me begin by quoting what Eleanor Roosevelt has said about human rights: "Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home -- so close and so small that they can not be seen on any maps of the world. Yet they are the world of the individual person; the neighbourhood he lives in; the school or college he attends; the factory, farm, or office where he works. Such are the places where every man, woman, and child seeks equal justice, equal opportunity, equal dignity without discrimination. Unless these rights have meaning there, they have little meaning anywhere. Without concerted citizens action to uphold them close to home, we shall look in vain for progress in the larger world." Thus, the international movements for human rights begin recognizing human rights as the essence of being human. The UN General Assembly on 10 December1948 adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It is widely recognized as the "constitution of the modern human rights movement." Later, we decided to recognize that 10 December as "The International Human Rights Day." The principle of "universality" enshrined in the Declaration has been often challenged, especially by governments claiming all rights are relative. They charge that universality is a cover-up for cultural imperialism and is a pretext for interference in the internal affairs of sovereign nations. The concept of Human Rights has been on the ecumenical agenda for long time. It is part and parcel of the mission and ministry of ecumenical movement whose involvement to uphold human dignity and effort to help people in their struggle against human rights violations have brought new dimensions and insights in the life and witness of Churches in several parts of the world. Yet, many Churches are not giving serious attention to promote and advocate human rights concerns, especially defending people’s dignity against human rights violations and evil structures of society. Quite often the churches forget the fact that it must take positive initiatives to ensure human rights of every person. In a world filled with glaring absence of human rights and social conflicts, the Church must be aware of the growing need that requires protecting human dignity and human rights at every level of society. Many Churches consider that the struggle for Human Rights and advocacy is a political activity or mere secular involvement. They ignore the reality that advocacy for human rights is an activity, which upholds and enhances the dignity and worth of human beings, which is the manifestation of love – the core of our fundamental faith. Therefore, human rights violations that are taking place in our midst are denial of the love shown to us by Jesus Christ and the church’s apathetic attitude towards protection of human rights and against human rights violations worsen the situation. The idea of human rights lies at the very core of the biblical narratives. The life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ manifest the worth of every individual. The affirmation that every human being is made in God’s image carries profound significance that challenges each one of us here. And, also it has weighty implications as one considers its significance for the defense of human rights. The emphasis of the Gospel is on the value of all human beings created in the image of God, on the atoning and redeeming work of Christ that gives to human being true dignity. As Christians, we have to reaffirm our commitment to work more fervently for the elimination of all forms of inhumanity and violence. The Churches in Asia should take a firm stand to dedicate themselves with renewed vigor to raise the consciousness of people, to equip them to uphold human rights as concrete expression of their faith and mission. As we see the reality that many countries in the world and particularly here in Asia continue to violate the principles and provisions stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we strongly urge all governments to take immediate and serious actions to stop all kind of human rights violations. Those countries that have not yet ratified the international conventions that affirm the principles of the UDHR, should ensure that they will obey every provision that are stated in the said declarations. We pray that God help us and all nations to stop the human rights violations and may all human beings live in peace, love and harmony. Prawate Khid-arn General Secretary Christian Conference of Asia Hong Kong posted by Anonymous on Thursday, December 08, 2005 |
