The International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute (IBAHRI) has marked the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by calling on governments, civil-society organisations, and individuals worldwide to redouble their efforts to translate the declaration’s principles into tangible actions.

In a statement, the organisation described the UDHR as “an invaluable compass of equality, fairness and justice”.

“It serves as a blueprint for the values that modern societies ought to be built on; indeed, many would claim it is the most important legal instrument of modern times,” IBAHRI said.

It warned, however, that the new millennium had seen the descent of many nations into authoritarian nationalism and a failure to protect human rights in many parts of the world, with women and children, “paying the greatest price”.

Sexual violence ‘not declining’

“While advances have been made in recent years towards achieving equality for women, the persistent use of sexual violence against women remains one of the greatest misogynistic obstacles to women rising, and it is not declining,” the institute said.

“[Currently], we see it happening in the recent attacks in Israel, Sudan and Ukraine. Women and girls – and in some cases men and boys too – suffer or witness the most sadistic and gruesome abuse which, long after peace agreements are signed, leave them forever traumatised,” it added.

“War is a time when human rights are needed most of all,” the human-rights body stated.

Calling for action to safeguard the rights and dignity of every individual, and to retain respect for international law and principles, it concluded: “Together, let us propel the legacy of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights into a future where human rights are not just an aspiration, but an unshakable reality for everyone.”