Human Rights

Human rights are the fundamental rights and freedoms inherent to every person. Their modern legal foundation is the International Bill of Human Rights, which consists of three key documents: the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. The U.N. and its agencies, along with other international organizations, work to protect and promote these rights globally.

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A North Korean soldier patrols the border with China.

Human Rights

U.N. investigator calls on U.S. to push human rights with North Korea

4 min read

Paid

A U.N. special investigator argued human rights should be on the agenda of a planned U.S.-North Korea nuclear summit.

Residents behind barbed wire at Sri Lanka's now-shuttered Manik Farm refugee camp

Human Rights

Threats to press and repressive leaders pose danger to democracy

3 min read

Paid

Reporters Without Borders says hatred for the press is 'steadily more visible' - and is not limited to authoritarian countries.