While some dictionaries define the word right as “a privilege,” when used in the context of “human rights,” we are talking about something more basic.*

Every person is entitled to certain fundamental rights, simply by the fact of being human. These are called “human rights” rather than a privilege (which can be taken away at someone’s whim).

1. *. In the study of any subject, it is beneficial, if not essential, to review and define key words.

Child abuse can be found in countries around the world. According to UNICEF, 40 million children below the age of 15 suffer from abuse and neglect. Youth who do not know that they have rights are vulnerable. Education is key.

With the February shooting of a Muir High School student and the rash of gun-related incidents that followed recently in the Pasadena/Altadena area, the community continues to be plagued with bloodshed.

Millions of South Africans have learned about their human rights through the work of Youth for Human Rights South Africa. The 30 Rights, 30 Ads have aired on big-screen televisions in all international airports in South Africa, in major shopping centers and government offices, and on the big screens in movie houses.

In a country known throughout the world for its commitment to human rights and religious tolerance, Denmark’s Youth for Human Rights chapter provides human rights education to Danish children to ensure the tradition continues.

Today we celebrate December 10th, 1948 when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was adopted by the United Nations. Since then we have made huge strides toward improved human rights but much, much more needs to be done. Especially important is Human Rights Education so that people everywhere can know about this document and know, too, that with human rights come responsibilities (UDHR, Article #29).

In Mexico—a nation long considered a human rights crisis zone by the international community—Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI) has created an extraordinary movement. Its aim is nothing less than eradicating human rights abuse across the entire Mexican landscape.