WESTERN BALKANS – Today marks the Human Rights Day, a day which is observed annually on 10 December to reaffirm the importance of human rights in our societies. This day commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948 which became an important milestone in the history of human rights and formed the basis for international and national human rights laws.
Guaranteeing, promoting and respecting human rights ensures that everyone in society is treated equally and enjoys fundamental individual freedoms and rights. Youth can and should play a significant role in this regard.
In pursuing its mission to connect the youth of the region, RYCO demonstrates strong commitment to human rights and building peaceful societies. By supporting the development of a political and social environment that empowers and facilitates youth exchanges, we offer young people the opportunity to meet, to share diverse ideas and experiences, and to learn from each other in open and safe spaces.
RYCO programs are designed to promote a culture of human rights, solidarity and tolerance. We believe that young people have the potential to lead our societies towards a better future by taking action and standing up for human rights and dignity. That is why, through our projects and initiatives, we empower them to take action and make their voices heard.
Today, human rights are as important as ever. The COVID-19 pandemic and the negative implications that follow from it have deepened poverty, inequality, discrimination and exclusion, and have challenged the perseverance of many human freedoms and rights. However, we remain convinced that the crisis can serve as an opportunity to recognize the gaps and re-build more open, well-connected and peaceful societies.
The Human Rights Day serves as a reminder to raise awareness of the importance of human rights and the need for more action on guaranteeing and protecting them. We urge everyone, especially our governments, to commit to a more tolerant, just and resilient Western Balkans.
Let’s recover better. Happy Human Rights Day!