Commonwealth Human Rights body's call

The Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI) has called upon the international community to courageously uphold the fundamental human rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

The CHRI, an international NGO, has urged this on the eve of the International Human Rights Day to be observed on December 10.

Since 1948, human rights have been the agreed basis of international law and are accepted as undeniable values, which are essential for human beings to live with dignity and in peace.

"But, this 60th year finds these achievements under severe threat," a CHRI statement said.

In the 21st century human rights standards are spoken of more in relation to their frequent and serious violations than in terms of honest adherence.

On every continent, human rights guaranteed by international promises are being cast aside with impunity, especially in the context of the so-called 'War on Terror', the rise of religious and nationalist extremism, the internationalisation and commercialisation of conflict, and the resulting exploitation and violence aimed at the vulnerable and the oppressed, the CHRI said.

To ensure better adherence to human rights, in June 2006 the UN established the new Human Rights Council. However, like its predecessor the Human Rights Commission, its workings presently appear strongly subject to national and supra-national interests unrelated to the protection of human rights.

This reflects the retreat from the commitment to fundamental human rights values ensured by the UDHR.

"In its 60th year, the values espoused by the UDHR appear to be more fragile than at any other point since its inception. It is precisely in these difficult times that states must endeavour to comply with their human rights commitments," the release said. (ANI)

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