History: Eleanor Roosevelt's Vision for Human Rights

In 1948, Eleanor Roosevelt gave a speech in Paris about the importance of "Human Rights." She explained that everyone deserves basic freedoms, like free speech, fair treatment, and the right to choose their own path, simply because they are human. Roosevelt shared how the United Nations was creating the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to protect these freedoms worldwide. She believed standing up for human rights builds a fairer, more peaceful world and called on everyone to work together to protect them.

Eleanor Roosevelt's Speech on "Human Rights"

Eleanor Roosevelt delivered an important speech at the Sorbonne in Paris in 1948, focusing on the need to protect human freedom. She chose this location because France has long been a leader in the fight for liberty and justice. Mrs. Roosevelt discussed how the United Nations, established after World War II, placed human rights at the center of its mission to ensure fairness and dignity for all people.

Mrs. Roosevelt highlighted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a document created by the United Nations’ Human Rights Commission. She explained that this Declaration outlines the basic rights that all people should enjoy, such as freedom of speech, religion, and protection from unfair treatment. She suggested the term "Human Rights" as a universal name for these freedoms, emphasizing their importance to every individual. The Declaration was divided into two key parts:

1. A Declaration of Rights: This was a list of ideals showing what rights every person should have. It serves as a guide for nations to follow and promotes the idea that without these rights, people cannot fully develop their potential.

2. A Covenant of Rights: This part, still in progress, would create legally binding agreements for countries to enforce these rights.

Mrs. Roosevelt also explained the disagreements between countries about what human rights mean. In democratic nations like the United States, freedom involves personal choice, such as choosing a job or expressing opinions freely. In contrast, the Soviet Union defined freedom differently, with the government controlling much of people’s lives. She argued that true freedom comes from individuals having the right to make their own choices.

Eleanor Roosevelt believed that human rights were essential for peace and fairness in the world. She stressed that protecting these rights required nations to respect not only their own citizens but also people around the world. She warned against governments that restrict freedoms, explaining that such systems often harm individuals and societies.

Through her speech, Mrs. Roosevelt called on nations to work together through the United Nations to protect and expand human rights. She encouraged people to remain steadfast in their belief in freedom and justice, stating that this ongoing struggle is key to building a peaceful and fair future for everyone. Her suggestion to embrace the term "Human Rights" reflected her vision of a universal standard that could unite people worldwide in their shared pursuit of dignity and liberty.