International Human Rights Day

For the last 61 years, December 10 has recognized the global pursuit of human rights and in 2009 there remains no shortage of cases that demand attention. From the rights of women in Afghanistan to continuing forms of slavery in countries such as Nepal, the need for greater efforts is compelling.

The Human Rights Watch website offers a view into abuses from many parts of the world. The United Nations also investigates pressing cases such as the form of slavery known as bonded labour in countries such as Nepal. Known as “Haliya”, these Nepalese work for landowners to pay off the principal and interest of loans taken by their ancestors. As they do not earn cash, they are unable to pay the debts, which are then passed on to the next generation. The UN is now working to emancipate and rehabilitate the Haliya, many of whom are illiterate.

Improving human rights is a demanding mission, and December 10 acts as a reminder of both hard-won victories and the work still to do.