What advances have been made in human rights since 1948?

Since 1948, significant advances in human rights have included the expansion of civil liberties, gender equality, and rights of marginalised groups.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948 marked the beginning of a global commitment to human rights. Since then, the world has seen a significant expansion of civil liberties. Freedom of speech, religion, and assembly have been increasingly recognised and protected. Many countries have abolished capital punishment, acknowledging the right to life and the prohibition of cruel and unusual punishment. The right to privacy has also been emphasised, particularly in the digital age, with laws enacted to protect personal data.

Gender equality has seen substantial progress. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) in 1979 was a landmark in recognising women's rights as human rights. It has led to legislative changes worldwide, promoting women's political participation, economic independence, and access to education and healthcare. The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in 1995 further reinforced these commitments. More recently, the #MeToo movement has brought global attention to sexual harassment and violence against women, leading to legal and social changes.

Rights of marginalised groups have also advanced. The International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) in 1965 and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in 2006 are notable examples. They have led to anti-discrimination laws and policies, promoting social inclusion and equal opportunities. The rights of indigenous peoples have been recognised in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in 2007. The rights of the LGBTQ+ community have also progressed, with many countries legalising same-sex marriage and enacting laws against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

However, it's important to note that while these advances represent significant progress, they are not uniformly implemented or respected worldwide. Many challenges remain, including ongoing discrimination, violence, and inequality. The struggle for human rights is a continuous process, requiring constant vigilance and advocacy.