human rights social work essay

Human Rights and Social Work Values

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

by Imran A. Mohammed

“To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.”    Nelson Mandela

     The United Nations (UN) was established following World War II (1939–45) in June 1945 with 50 member states. The UN plays an important role across the globe in assuring security and human rights for all people. December 10, 1948, marks a very important day in history, because the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted and proclaimed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights . In embracing the Declaration, 48 nations asserted their strong obligation that all humans deserved to be treated with respect and dignity, and with peace in the world.

     The social work profession shares a close relationship with human rights, because it adheres to values such as respect, dignity, and self-determination - values that are strongly embedded in the code of ethics for all practitioners. The client-social worker relationship has long been celebrated. The profession is highly regarded for challenging the inhumane treatment of vulnerable people, its commitment to challenge anti-oppressive practice, and most importantly, ensuring that vulnerable people are given a voice!

     Human rights are particularly important for social workers when making decisions that concern the future care needs of individuals. For example, Mr. A is no longer able to live at home because of his care needs. He requires constant care throughout the night. He has been assessed as now needing 24-hour care after all other options have been exhausted. As a social worker, one has to carefully consider the following questions: Does Mr. A want to go into 24-hour care? Will Mr. A be isolated if he does go into a care home? Will Mr A.’s family and friends be able to visit him? These are just some of the key questions that a practitioner has to consider alongside making sure that the placement chosen is able to meet Mr A.’s future care needs. Social workers, on a daily basis, have to make important decisions. Having an awareness of the person’s human rights can perhaps give the practitioner confidence to challenge unfair decisions as required.

     There is no one right way to practice, and our job at times can be difficult, but the rewards are great. Whenever placing someone into long-term care, my message to practitioners is that they must do all they can to promote the person’s human rights!

Imran A. Mohammed is a Ph.D. student at THE CENTRE FOR LIFE LONG LEARNING, The University of Warwick, United Kingdom. Imran is a former social work practitioner. He is passionate about human rights and strongly believes that conversations about people’s basic rights must never stop.

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International Federation of Social Workers

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Human rights

August 1, 1996

History of human rights

The history of human rights is that of the struggle against exploitation of one person by another. It is based on the recognition of basic rights founded on the concept of the inherent dignity and worth of every individual.

The recognition was consolidated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the General Assembly of the United Nations. Its preamble asserted “recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world”.

The basic instruments concerning human rights are:

• Charter of the United Nations (1945)
• Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)
• International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
• International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights
• International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (1965)
• Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (1979)
• Convention Against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman and Degrading Treatment or Punishment (1984)
• Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989)
• International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of all Migrant Workers and Members of their Families (1990)

These global instruments are reinforced by:

• The European Convention on Human Rights (1950)
• The American Convention on Human Rights (1969)
• The African Charter on Human Rights and Peoples Rights (1981)

The covenants and conventions are supported by UN Declarations:

• The Rights of Mentally Retarded Persons (1971)
• The Protection of Women and Children in Armed Conflicts (1974)
• The Elimination of All forms of Religious Intolerance (1981)
• The Right to Development (1986)

Violations of human rights

Despite these agreements, gross and subtle violations of human rights are perpetrated every day against thousands of people. The phenomenon of the “disappeared”, the torture of political prisoners, summary killings and arbitrary arrests, the increasing use of the death penalty, the extortion of confessions by physical and mental abuse, the manipulation of and the intellectual, emotional and moral pressures imposed on individuals in an attempt to condition their personalities, the detention of prisoners without trial, the economic exploitation of adults and children, displacement of populations due to internal conflicts – these and other violations are all too evident throughout the world. The victims of human rights abuses continue to suffer for many years as a result of their experience.

Many factors contribute to the violations of human rights. The collapse of totalitarian regimes in Eastern Europe did not bring an end to the human rights abuses. The resurgence of nationalism, xenophobia and anti-Semitism in countries with established democracies, as well as in the former Eastern bloc, posed new challenges to the United Nations. In Africa, the rise of tribalism undermined the integrity of nations and led to widespread abuse of the most basic rights to life. In more than one region of the world, there has been a disturbing re-emergence of genocide in situations of armed conflict.

Social work principles

Human Rights condenses into two words the struggle for dignity and fundamental freedoms which allow the full development of human potential. Civil and political rights have to be accompanied by economic, social and cultural rights.

Social workers serve human development through adherence to the following basic principles:

• Every human being has a unique value, which justifies moral consideration for that person.
• Each individual has the right to self-fulfilment to the extent that it does not encroach upon the same right of others, and has an obligation to contribute to the well-being of society.
• Each society, regardless of its form, should function to provide the maximum benefit for all of its members.
• Social workers have a commitment to principles of social justice.
• Social workers have the responsibility to devote objective and disciplined knowledge and skill to work with individuals, groups, communities, and societies in their development and resolution of personal-societal conflicts and their consequences.
• Social workers are expected to provide the best possible assistance without unfair discrimination on the basis of both gender, age, disability, race, colour, language, religious or political beliefs, property, sexual orientation, status or social class.
• Social workers respect the basic human rights of individuals and groups as expressed in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international conventions derived from that Declaration.
• Social workers pay regard to the principles of privacy, confidentiality and responsible use of information in their professional work. Social workers respect justified confidentiality even when their country’s legislation is in conflict with this demand.
• Social workers are expected to work with their clients, working for the best interests of the clients but paying due regard to the interests of others involved. Clients are encouraged to participate as much as possible, and should be informed of the risks and likely benefits of proposed courses of action.
• Social workers generally expect clients to take responsibility for determining courses of action affecting their lives. Compulsion which might be necessary to solve one party’s problems at the expense of the interests of others involved should take place after careful explicit evaluation of the claims of the conflicting parties. Social workers should minimise the use of legal compulsion.
• Social workers make ethically justified decisions, and stand by them, paying due regard to The Ethics of Social Work – Principles and Standards adopted by the International Federation of Social Workers.

These principles, drawn from the experience of social workers in carrying out their responsibility to help people with individual and social problems, place a special responsibility on the social work profession to advance the cause of human rights throughout the world.

Role of social workers

Social workers deal with common human needs. They work to prevent or alleviate individual, group and community problems, and to improve the quality of life for all people. In doing so, they seek to uphold the rights of the individuals or groups with whom they are working.

The value base of social work with its emphasis on the unique worth of each individual has much in common with human rights theory. Social workers frequently operate in situations of conflict, and are required by their national codes of Ethics and in the international Ethical Principles and Standards to demonstrate respect for all regardless of their previous conduct. Their experience of the impact of social conditions on the capacity of individuals and communities to resolve difficulties means that they recognise that the full realisation of civil and political rights is inseparable from the enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights. Policies of economic and social development have, therefore, a crucial part to play in securing the extension of human rights.

As a result of their particular role and responsibility in society, social workers are often the conscience of the community. Therefore, the value system, training and experience of social workers requires that they take professional responsibility for promoting human rights. Social workers need to work with other professions and non-governmental organisations in action on human rights issues. As advocates for change, they are often in the forefront of movements for change and thus are themselves subject to repression and abuse. The IFSW Human Rights Commission was established in 1988 to support social workers under threat for pursuing their professional responsibilities.

Policy statement

Human rights are those fundamental entitlements that are considered to be necessary for developing each personality to the fullest. Violations of human rights are any arbitrary and selective actions that interfere with the full exercise of these fundamental entitlements.

The social work profession, through historical and empirical evidence, is convinced that the achievement of human rights for all people is a fundamental prerequisite for a caring world and the survival of the human race. It is only through the recognition and implementation of the basic concept of the inherent dignity and worth of each person that a secure and stable world can be achieved. Consequently, social workers believe that the attainment of basic human rights requires positive action by individuals, communities, nations and international groups, as well as a clear duty not to inhibit those rights.

The social work profession accepts its share of responsibility for working to oppose and eliminate all violations of human rights. Social workers must exercise this responsibility in their practice with individuals, groups and communities, in their roles as agency or organisational representatives and as citizens of a nation and the world.

IFSW, representing the social work profession internationally, proclaims the following human rights as a common standard and guide for the work of all professional social workers:

The value of life is central to human rights work. Social workers have not only to resist violations of human rights which threaten or diminish the quality of life, but also actively to promote life enhancing and nurturing activities.

Physical and psychological well-being is an important aspect of the quality of life. The deterioration of the environment and the non-existence of curtailment of health programmes threaten life.

Social workers assert the right of individuals and communities to have protection from preventable disease and disability.

Freedom and liberty

All human beings are born free. The fundamental freedoms include the right to liberty, to freedom from slavery, to freedom from arbitrary arrest, torture, cruel inhuman or degrading treatment, and freedom of thought and speech.

Next to life itself, freedom and liberty are the most precious human values asserting the worth of human existence.

Equality and Non-Discrimination

The fundamental principle of equality is closely linked to principles of justice. Every person regardless of birth, gender, age, disability, race, colour, language, religious or political beliefs, property, sexual orientation, status or social class has a right to equal treatment and protection under the law.

Social workers have to ensure equal access to public services and social welfare provision in accordance with the resources of national and local governments, and have a particular responsibility to combat discrimination of any kind in their own practice.

Every person has a right to protection against arbitrary arrest or interference with privacy, and to equal protection under the law. Where laws have been violated, every person has a right to a prompt and fair trial by an objective judicial authority. Those convicted are entitled to humane treatment whose purpose is to secure the reform and social readaptation of the individual.

The impartial operation of the law is a crucial safeguard for the citizen in the administration of justice. Social justice, however, requires more than a legal system untainted by interference by the executive. It requires the satisfaction of basic human needs and the equitable distribution of resources. It requires universal access to health care and education, thus enabling the achievement of human potential. It underpins concepts of social development. In the pursuit of social justice workers may have to face conflict with powerful elite groups in any given society.

Every person whose fundamental freedoms are infringed has a right to support from fellow citizens. The concept of solidarity recognises the fraternity ideal of the French Revolution, and the importance of mutual support. Social workers give expression to this through the Human Rights Commission in relation to social workers whose political freedoms are infringed. In their daily practice they express solidarity with the poor and oppressed. Poverty, hunger, and homelessness are violations of human rights. Social workers stand with the disadvantaged in campaigning for social justice.

Social responsibility

Social responsibility is the recognition that each of us has a responsibility to family, to community, to nation and to the world community to contribute personal talents, energy and commitment to the advancement of human rights. Those with intellectual and physical resources should utilise them to assist those less well equipped. Social work’s engagement with the disadvantaged is a reflection of that responsibility. No person or collective body has the right to engage in any activity, including propaganda, to incite war, hostility, hatred, bigotry or violence, contrary to the institution and maintenance of human rights.

Peace and Non-Violence

Peace is more than the absence of organised conflict. It is the goal of achieving harmony with self and with others. Social workers are committed to the pursuit of non-violence. Their experience in conflict resolution teaches that mediation and arbitration are effective instruments to overcome seemingly irreconcilable differences. Non-violence does not mean passivity in the face of injustice. Social workers will resist and exercise non-violent pressure for change, but will not engage in acts of violence in the course of their professional activity. Social workers devote its energies to constructive efforts to achieve social justice.

The Environment

Humankind has trusteeship responsibility for the care of the planet. Environmental degradation poses a threat to life itself in some areas, and to the quality of life in many countries. False development models based on industrialisation, the unequal distribution of resources, excessive consumerism and ignorance of the pernicious consequences of pollution have all contributed to this global plight. Social workers need to work with community groups in tackling the consequences of environmental decline and destruction.

Approved at the IFSW General Meeting, Hong Kong, July 21 – 23, 1996

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Social Work Is a Human Rights Profession

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Susan Mapp, Jane McPherson, David Androff, Shirley Gatenio Gabel, Social Work Is a Human Rights Profession, Social Work , Volume 64, Issue 3, July 2019, Pages 259–269, https://doi.org/10.1093/sw/swz023

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As defined by the International Federation of Social Workers, social work is a human rights profession. This is explicitly stated in the professional codes of ethics in many nations. However, the most recent version of the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers continues to exclude any mention of human rights, fitting in with the history of U.S. exceptionalism on this subject. Social workers around the world have a long history of working for the achievement of human rights, including an explicit grounding of practice in human rights principles: human dignity, nondiscrimination, participation, transparency, and accountability. Utilizing these principles, U.S. social workers can move from the deficit model of the needs-based approach to competently contextualizing individual issues in their larger human rights framework. In this way, social work can address larger social problems and make way for the concurrent achievement of human rights. This article explains these principles and provides a case example of how to apply them in practice.

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Social work and human rights: a practice guide.

Social Work and Human Rights guides launched on Human Rights Day - 10th December 2019.

Social work is a human rights-based profession. A key milestone for the development of human rights in the UK was the Human Rights Act 1998.

Every day social workers across the UK tackle issues that are underpinned by human rights.

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Inspiring human rights essays everybody should know

Can Human Rights Bring Social Justice? 12 Essays

Technically this is a collection of 12 separate essays, but all of them address the same topic: the intersection of human rights and social justice.

Scholars from countries around the world discuss what human rights and social justice actually mean, the potential for human rights to lead to social justice (or not), and what the role of human rights organizations like Amnesty International is in the conversation and practice of human rights law and social justice. Each author offers a unique perspective, some positive and some critical, on the topic and covers a specific aspect of the topic to help create a whole picture.

Women’s Rights are Human Rights

In this publication from the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the contributors explore one of the most fundamental and essential human rights: the rights of women. From the perspective of the United Nations, this publication is a comprehensive overview of the issue of human rights, including the international human rights laws and UN practices related to the topic. Additionally, it talks about specific issues relating to women’s rights, such as reproductive health, standard of living, conflict, violence against women, access to justice, and more. Through each of these specific areas, this report gives examples of the human rights framework in action through real-life cases.

Part 1: So Software Has Eaten the World: What Does It Mean for Human Rights, Security and Governance ; Part 2: Digital Disruption of Human Rights

This two-part article from Eileen Donahoe, Director of Global Affairs for Human Rights Watch, discusses the intersection of technology and human rights in an increasingly digital age. Donahoe’s experiences serving with UNHCR, Human Rights Watch, International Service for Human Rights, and Stanford University’s Center for International Security and Cooperation provide a unique and informed perspective on the challenges that technology brings the progression and implementation of human rights. The first article addresses issues related to governance and globalization, and the second article talks about the disparity in human rights that technology can cause and has caused already. For human rights professionals, her articles provide important insight to consider in the implementation and practice of human rights law.

The Perils of Indifference

Although this essay was originally a speech from Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel, it is important reminder of where the world has been in terms of human rights violations, as well as where we should strive to be. While the tenants of the speech are ones that most human rights professionals know, they are also tenants that can be easy to forget in the day-to-day work and the seemingly endless fight for justice. Wiesel reminds human rights professionals, along with the rest of the world, why they shouldn’t give in to indifference when the struggle for human rights is long and difficult. Beyond being an inspiring piece, this speech, and Wiesel’s writings in general, have been key pieces to human rights theory and practice, shaping the ideas and ideals we have today.

Letter from Birmingham Jail

Another important historical piece in the human and civil rights movements is Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail.” In addition to defending the practice of nonviolent protest, the letter also serves as a call to action for people to take direct action against unjust laws rather than to rely or wait on the courts to serve justice. King’s letter is a reminder for all human rights professionals that the road to human rights practice is not easy and is not always black and white. As an essay addressing one of the most fundamental and long-standing human rights issues, racial inequality, this letter is an inspiring and historical reminder for all human rights professionals.

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About the author, allison reefer.

Allison Reefer is a young professional living in Pittsburgh, PA. She works with a refugee resettlement agency to help refugees and immigrants in the city, and she volunteers with a local shelter for human trafficking victims. She obtained her Master in International Development from the University of Pittsburgh and a BA in Writing from Geneva College, focusing most of her academic work on human trafficking and migration in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. In her free time, she loves to write, read, sing and play bass guitar, practice Russian, and explore her city.

Social Justice and Human Rights Essay

In the modern world, more and more attention is paid to social justice issues. Public justice is the fundamental principle of a peaceful and prosperous life in the country and between states. The principles of social equity are aimed at removing the barriers that arise in front of people due to various factors. It includes age, race, ethnicity, religion, culture, and the presence of a disability (Marshal et al., 2020). The international community recognizes that social development and justice can be achieved in conditions of respect for all human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Nowadays, significant progress in international investments, capital flows, and trade, along with the development of information technologies, cause globalization and interdependence. In turn, it promotes the world economy’s growth and the rise and improvement of living standards throughout the world (Malihah, 2019). In the aspect of social justice of work, emphasis is placed on guaranteeing the achievement of fair results for all through the provision of employment. Moreover, one should provide meeting fundamental rights and principles, social dialogue, and protection to workers.

It should be noted that social justice is an ambiguous concept. Public equity means receiving benefits according to merit but, at the same time, caring for the vulnerable sections of society (Yacounian & Hansson, 2020). Today, social justice can also be understood as equality before the law, social security, and considering the vital needs of the country’s population. Social equity can be called a universal human value since its manifestations are natural for any healthy society.

To conclude, social justice is one of the foundations of modern civil society. It is on par with other eternal values such as culture, knowledge, human life, peace, and morality. A country that supports social justice for its own citizens participates in the formation of an active civil society. At the same time, social justice allows citizens to feel the rule of law and equal access to their own rights and obligations.

Malihah, E. (2019). Research for social justice: Proceedings of the international seminar on research for social justice . Routledge.

Marshall, C., Pepin, C. G., & Johnson, M. (2020). Educational politics for social justice . Teachers College Press.

Yacoubian, H. A., & Hansson, L. (2020). Nature of science for social justice . Springer Nature.

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IvyPanda. (2024, February 24). Social Justice and Human Rights. https://ivypanda.com/essays/social-justice-and-human-rights/

"Social Justice and Human Rights." IvyPanda , 24 Feb. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/social-justice-and-human-rights/.

IvyPanda . (2024) 'Social Justice and Human Rights'. 24 February.

IvyPanda . 2024. "Social Justice and Human Rights." February 24, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/social-justice-and-human-rights/.

1. IvyPanda . "Social Justice and Human Rights." February 24, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/social-justice-and-human-rights/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Social Justice and Human Rights." February 24, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/social-justice-and-human-rights/.

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Urgent assistance for Afghanistan 

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President, UN Security Council ​

Open letter to United Nations

We support the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres’ call for the UN Security Council to: “stand as one, and ensure that human rights are upheld, humanitarian aid continues” in Afghanistan.

In view of the current and unfolding situation in Afghanistan, we with like-minded international organisations, advocate that the UN Security Council urgently send representatives for an UN stabilization force to maintain safety and establish an open border for humanitarian aid personnel and social workers to be allowed to enter and leave the country at will, so as to facilitate relief work and safe passage for the workers. 

We would like to support the United Nations along with other agencies for urgent relief and crisis recovery in the time of transition.

You may contact the following for any follow-up action on this matter:   Professor TAN Ngoh Tiong, Chair, Global Institute of Social Work (GISW); http://www.thegisw.org; President, Connexions International (CXI). International Association of Schools of Social Work’s Main Representative to UN Bangkok, Email: [email protected] and:  Professor Johnston HUANG, Non-Executive Director, Social Work Across Borders (SWAB), http://www.swab.org.hk, Email: [email protected] Cc: Sec Gen UN Antonio Guterres; Head UNAMA Deborah Lyons, United Nations Secretariat

Dated:18 August, 2021  

GISW, SWAB, with like-minded international organizations including International Association of Schools of Social Work, Connexions International , and others supports: United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres’ call for the UN Security Council to: “stand as one, and ensure that human rights are upheld, humanitarian aid continues” in Afghanistan.

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Human Rights and Social Work

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

What is Human Rights? ​ Men and women are born free to live in peace, dignity and hope. Human rights “include the right to life and liberty, freedom from slavery and torture, freedom of opinion and expression, the right to work and education, and many more. Everyone is entitled to these rights, without discrimination.” So why does this concern social workers? Social work is based on values of social justice and equality. Infringements of human rights on life and liberty is an assault on human dignity and the value of life, values that the social work profession holds dear to. ​ So what actions should social workers take? Before any action social workers are trained professionally to make a thorough assessment of the situation, conditions and person and based on that accurate evaluation of the causal and maintenance factors, make appropriate intervention, within the scope of their work. The situation is often more complex, thus, as far as possible, an analysis of the historical, political and multiple perspective is warranted. ​ What are the causes of human rights violations? These could be actions made by governments and oppressive structures; invading forces in military conflicts, businesses and economic systems that are exploitative, or even interpersonal or cultural practices that inflict physical hurt or social psychological deprivations. ​ What can social workers do? Social workers should intervene at the level of practice they are trained and competent in, whether confronting or engaging with individuals, families, communities, governments or nations to redress the violence or violations. The intervention could include engagements with and training or facilitating mediation and conflict resolution, engaging in social actions such as protest, demonstration or making statements and calling for a stop of the human rights violation. ​ The aim for social work is often positive engagement, either for a direct cessation of the violation or raising public awareness of the issue and to advocate and build support for the oppressed. ​ Before any action, social workers should gauge the intended effect, or even the unintended consequences of their actions, whether it will achieve their intervention goal or even detract from the objective. The approach must always take the interest of and the safety concern, as well as impact on the clients as the key consideration. It is only ethical practice for social workers to take responsibility for their actions. ​ ​ GISW calls Social Workers of the World to Unite against Human Rights Violation: Global Institute of Social Work stands with our international social work fraternity in the universal call of social workers to act on human rights violation that is embodied in the IASSW statement for Peaceful Engagement: ​ IASSW’s Message For Peaceful Engagement With Social Justice, Opposing And Condemning Racism, Discrimination And Violence ”IASSW opposes and condemns racism, discrimination, intolerance and violence in all its pernicious and evil forms, and condemns those governments, quasi-governments and individuals who perpetrate racism, discrimination and support intolerance and violence. We condemn racist acts and people or industries that make and sell the weapons and other equipment that allow terrorists to carry out their violent intentions. Our condemnation does not change according to country, race, ethnicity, religion, or other circumstance. IASSW does support robust conversations undertaken in goodwill to address and resolve injustices around the world that have grown from years of oppression, colonialism, and religious and economic hegemony. The history of discrimination and oppression, however, cannot in any way justify contemporary violence and acts of terror and racism which can only perpetuate the oppressive cycle of violence, and do nothing to advance social justice or peace. The great religions of the world only advocate peaceful resolution of conflict and complaints. Social work educators also teach peaceful engagement for social justice in our classrooms, support it in our research, and are prepared to engage with anyone of goodwill who is interested in addressing and resolving historical or modern grievances with the goal of social justice and an end to racism and oppression in all its forms.” ​ ​

Loss of innocent human lives is an affront to human rights! ​​ ​

In relation to the Palestinian-Israeli Conflict, IFSW has issued a specific statement: TERROR IN GAZA: REQUIRES SOLUTIONS THAT ADDRESS THE UNDERLYING PROBLEMS, Information Type: Statement Topic: Conflict, May 17, 2021 ​ “The Israel / Palestine war is an International disaster with the potential to escalate in the region and beyond. Such a conflict could affect each and every one of us and requires global action to support a peaceful and just resolution. Social workers from every part of the conflict area have contacted IFSW to express their fear of the Israeli government sending ground troops into Gaza. All have said that it will increase the death toll exponentially. Social workers in other parts of the region are concerned that this escalation will fuel tensions which have already created refugee camps with millions of displaced persons. Diplomats globally have reported their fear that this escalation will lead to a massacre that will have wider repercussions.” ….. IFSW recognized the need for solidarity, with the call made by IFSW President, Silvana Martinez and Secretary-General, Rory Truell: “Key factors in achieving this requires us all to support the people of Palestine and Israel to: · Recognise each other´s rights · Recognise that the solutions involve all sides · Recognise that land is there to support everyone, and we have a responsibility to care for it and each other. ​ These core principles have assisted the transformation from war to peace in many places throughout the world. Evidence from our global members has shown that peace processes are successful when engagement takes place at both the political and civil society levels and a new vision is formed with a focus on joint and better futures. ” ​ As early as 2006, at the IFSW general assembly, a resolution was made: “The IFSW General Meeting in 2006 endorsed a: “Resolution on the Victims of Violent Conflicts” and expressed its dismay at the threat to the well being of the world’s most vulnerable citizens in conflicts: women, children, the elderly, the disabled and the poor, who are disproportionately affected by these conflicts. The resolution further emphasized the right of all peoples to live in an environment in which essential human rights and social justice are respected. Social work values emphasize the need for dialogue, respect and consideration of the views of opposing parties. ​ Life is the ultimate human right. War as a conflict resolution method is not working, only making things worse. We therefore call on the international society and the actors in the ongoing conflict to do their outmost to stop the use of military means and seek a sustainable, peaceful solution providing safety for both parties.”

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Journal of Human Rights and Social Work

Journal of Human Rights and Social Work  brings together knowledge about addressing human rights in practice, research, policy, and advocacy as well as teaching about human rights from around the globe.

• A resource for educators, practitioners, and administrators in the field of social work, with a focus on human rights practice in social work research, practice and education. The journal provides research-based human rights tools, theoretical discussions of human rights, and guidelines for improving practice.
• Welcomes interdisciplinary and international work including the fields of psychology, sociology, social policy, social welfare, and social development.
• Articles explore the history of social work as a human rights profession, familiarize participants on how to advance human rights using the human rights documents from the United Nations, present the types of monitoring and assessment that takes place internationally and within the U.S., demonstrate rights-based practice approaches and techniques, and facilitate discussion of the implications of human rights tools and the framework for social work practice.
• Shirley Gatenio Gabel,
• Cathryne L. Schmitz

Latest issue

Volume 9, Issue 1

Latest articles

The impact of islamophobia on the persecution of myanmar's rohingya: a human rights perspective.

• Ainun Nishat Chowdhury
• Ridwan Islam Sifat

Asylum seekers, Refugees and Social Safety Nets: Opportunities and Challenges at Tongogara Refugee Camp, Chipinge, Zimbabwe

• Witness Chikoko
• Johanne Mhlanga
• Kudzai Mwapaura

Assessing the Factors That Affect the Use of Modern Contraceptive Methods Among Youth and Adolescents in Traditional Authority Chimwala, Mangochi District

• Daniel Devoted Matemba
• Edmond Raphael Kautsire

COVID-19 and Healthcare as a Human Right in Bangladesh: The Way Forward

• Jobair Alam
• Md. Naimul Hasan
• Sonia Mannan

Breaking Barriers: Addressing the Critical Challenges of Disability Concession in ASEAN Countries

• Sapto Hermawan
• Okky Fauzan Trias Anggoro

Journal updates

Call for papers: environmental and climate justice: intersecting rights of humans and the natural world.

The Journal of Human Rights and Social Work is now inviting manuscript contributions for the upcoming special issue  Environmental and Climate Justice: Intersecting Rights of Humans and the Natural World . Despite the increasing risk associated with climate change, little attention has been given in social work literature on including local, community, and systemic environmental issues, and even less has focused on connections between human rights, nature, and the ecology.   

We welcome submissions based on Indigenous practices, cultural models, community responses, and interdisciplinary interventions/research.  

We are interested in submissions that address the multifaceted issues that cross environmental and social justice, explore human rights concerns and the rights of nature, and engage social work perspectives. We seek conceptual, empirical, and personal reflections for practice or teaching.

Guest Editors: Cathryne L. Schmitz, Lacey M. Sloan  Submission Deadline: May 15, 2024

Guidelines for Special Issue Proposals

Interested in submitting a proposal for a special issue in the Journal of Human Rights and Social Work? Learn more about the elements required upon submission, the submission process, and the criteria used to evaluate proposals.

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Essay on Human Rights: Samples in 500 and 1500

• Updated on  
• Dec 9, 2023

Essay writing is an integral part of the school curriculum and various academic and competitive exams like IELTS , TOEFL , SAT , UPSC , etc. It is designed to test your command of the English language and how well you can gather your thoughts and present them in a structure with a flow. To master your ability to write an essay, you must read as much as possible and practise on any given topic. This blog brings you a detailed guide on how to write an essay on Human Rights , with useful essay samples on Human rights.

This Blog Includes:

The basic human rights, 200 words essay on human rights, 500 words essay on human rights, 500+ words essay on human rights in india, 1500 words essay on human rights, importance of human rights, essay on human rights pdf.

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What are Human Rights

Human rights mark everyone as free and equal, irrespective of age, gender, caste, creed, religion and nationality. The United Nations adopted human rights in light of the atrocities people faced during the Second World War. On the 10th of December 1948, the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Its adoption led to the recognition of human rights as the foundation for freedom, justice and peace for every individual. Although it’s not legally binding, most nations have incorporated these human rights into their constitutions and domestic legal frameworks. Human rights safeguard us from discrimination and guarantee that our most basic needs are protected.

Did you know that the 10th of December is celebrated as Human Rights Day ?

Before we move on to the essays on human rights, let’s check out the basics of what they are.

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Here is a 200-word short sample essay on basic Human Rights.

Human rights are a set of rights given to every human being regardless of their gender, caste, creed, religion, nation, location or economic status. These are said to be moral principles that illustrate certain standards of human behaviour. Protected by law , these rights are applicable everywhere and at any time. Basic human rights include the right to life, right to a fair trial, right to remedy by a competent tribunal, right to liberty and personal security, right to own property, right to education, right of peaceful assembly and association, right to marriage and family, right to nationality and freedom to change it, freedom of speech, freedom from discrimination, freedom from slavery, freedom of thought, conscience and religion, freedom of movement, right of opinion and information, right to adequate living standard and freedom from interference with privacy, family, home and correspondence.

Also Read: Law Courses

Check out this 500-word long essay on Human Rights.

Every person has dignity and value. One of the ways that we recognise the fundamental worth of every person is by acknowledging and respecting their human rights. Human rights are a set of principles concerned with equality and fairness. They recognise our freedom to make choices about our lives and develop our potential as human beings. They are about living a life free from fear, harassment or discrimination.

Human rights can broadly be defined as the basic rights that people worldwide have agreed are essential. These include the right to life, the right to a fair trial, freedom from torture and other cruel and inhuman treatment, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the right to health, education and an adequate standard of living. These human rights are the same for all people everywhere – men and women, young and old, rich and poor, regardless of our background, where we live, what we think or believe. This basic property is what makes human rights’ universal’.

Human rights connect us all through a shared set of rights and responsibilities. People’s ability to enjoy their human rights depends on other people respecting those rights. This means that human rights involve responsibility and duties towards other people and the community. Individuals have a responsibility to ensure that they exercise their rights with consideration for the rights of others. For example, when someone uses their right to freedom of speech, they should do so without interfering with someone else’s right to privacy.

Governments have a particular responsibility to ensure that people can enjoy their rights. They must establish and maintain laws and services that enable people to enjoy a life in which their rights are respected and protected. For example, the right to education says that everyone is entitled to a good education. Therefore, governments must provide good quality education facilities and services to their people. If the government fails to respect or protect their basic human rights, people can take it into account.

Values of tolerance, equality and respect can help reduce friction within society. Putting human rights ideas into practice can help us create the kind of society we want to live in. There has been tremendous growth in how we think about and apply human rights ideas in recent decades. This growth has had many positive results – knowledge about human rights can empower individuals and offer solutions for specific problems.

Human rights are an important part of how people interact with others at all levels of society – in the family, the community, school, workplace, politics and international relations. Therefore, people everywhere must strive to understand what human rights are. When people better understand human rights, it is easier for them to promote justice and the well-being of society. 

Also Read: Important Articles in Indian Constitution

Here is a human rights essay focused on India.

All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. It has been rightly proclaimed in the American Declaration of Independence that “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Created with certain unalienable rights….” Similarly, the Indian Constitution has ensured and enshrined Fundamental rights for all citizens irrespective of caste, creed, religion, colour, sex or nationality. These basic rights, commonly known as human rights, are recognised the world over as basic rights with which every individual is born.

In recognition of human rights, “The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was made on the 10th of December, 1948. This declaration is the basic instrument of human rights. Even though this declaration has no legal bindings and authority, it forms the basis of all laws on human rights. The necessity of formulating laws to protect human rights is now being felt all over the world. According to social thinkers, the issue of human rights became very important after World War II concluded. It is important for social stability both at the national and international levels. Wherever there is a breach of human rights, there is conflict at one level or the other.

Given the increasing importance of the subject, it becomes necessary that educational institutions recognise the subject of human rights as an independent discipline. The course contents and curriculum of the discipline of human rights may vary according to the nature and circumstances of a particular institution. Still, generally, it should include the rights of a child, rights of minorities, rights of the needy and the disabled, right to live, convention on women, trafficking of women and children for sexual exploitation etc.

Since the formation of the United Nations , the promotion and protection of human rights have been its main focus. The United Nations has created a wide range of mechanisms for monitoring human rights violations. The conventional mechanisms include treaties and organisations, U.N. special reporters, representatives and experts and working groups. Asian countries like China argue in favour of collective rights. According to Chinese thinkers, European countries lay stress upon individual rights and values while Asian countries esteem collective rights and obligations to the family and society as a whole.

With the freedom movement the world over after World War II, the end of colonisation also ended the policy of apartheid and thereby the most aggressive violation of human rights. With the spread of education, women are asserting their rights. Women’s movements play an important role in spreading the message of human rights. They are fighting for their rights and supporting the struggle for human rights of other weaker and deprived sections like bonded labour, child labour, landless labour, unemployed persons, Dalits and elderly people.

Unfortunately, violation of human rights continues in most parts of the world. Ethnic cleansing and genocide can still be seen in several parts of the world. Large sections of the world population are deprived of the necessities of life i.e. food, shelter and security of life. Right to minimum basic needs viz. Work, health care, education and shelter are denied to them. These deprivations amount to the negation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Also Read: Human Rights Courses

Check out this detailed 1500-word essay on human rights.

The human right to live and exist, the right to equality, including equality before the law, non-discrimination on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth, and equality of opportunity in matters of employment, the right to freedom of speech and expression, assembly, association, movement, residence, the right to practice any profession or occupation, the right against exploitation, prohibiting all forms of forced labour, child labour and trafficking in human beings, the right to freedom of conscience, practice and propagation of religion and the right to legal remedies for enforcement of the above are basic human rights. These rights and freedoms are the very foundations of democracy.

Obviously, in a democracy, the people enjoy the maximum number of freedoms and rights. Besides these are political rights, which include the right to contest an election and vote freely for a candidate of one’s choice. Human rights are a benchmark of a developed and civilised society. But rights cannot exist in a vacuum. They have their corresponding duties. Rights and duties are the two aspects of the same coin.

Liberty never means license. Rights presuppose the rule of law, where everyone in the society follows a code of conduct and behaviour for the good of all. It is the sense of duty and tolerance that gives meaning to rights. Rights have their basis in the ‘live and let live’ principle. For example, my right to speech and expression involves my duty to allow others to enjoy the same freedom of speech and expression. Rights and duties are inextricably interlinked and interdependent. A perfect balance is to be maintained between the two. Whenever there is an imbalance, there is chaos.

A sense of tolerance, propriety and adjustment is a must to enjoy rights and freedom. Human life sans basic freedom and rights is meaningless. Freedom is the most precious possession without which life would become intolerable, a mere abject and slavish existence. In this context, Milton’s famous and oft-quoted lines from his Paradise Lost come to mind: “To reign is worth ambition though in hell/Better to reign in hell, than serve in heaven.”

However, liberty cannot survive without its corresponding obligations and duties. An individual is a part of society in which he enjoys certain rights and freedom only because of the fulfilment of certain duties and obligations towards others. Thus, freedom is based on mutual respect’s rights. A fine balance must be maintained between the two, or there will be anarchy and bloodshed. Therefore, human rights can best be preserved and protected in a society steeped in morality, discipline and social order.

Violation of human rights is most common in totalitarian and despotic states. In the theocratic states, there is much persecution, and violation in the name of religion and the minorities suffer the most. Even in democracies, there is widespread violation and infringement of human rights and freedom. The women, children and the weaker sections of society are victims of these transgressions and violence.

The U.N. Commission on Human Rights’ main concern is to protect and promote human rights and freedom in the world’s nations. In its various sessions held from time to time in Geneva, it adopts various measures to encourage worldwide observations of these basic human rights and freedom. It calls on its member states to furnish information regarding measures that comply with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights whenever there is a complaint of a violation of these rights. In addition, it reviews human rights situations in various countries and initiates remedial measures when required.

The U.N. Commission was much concerned and dismayed at the apartheid being practised in South Africa till recently. The Secretary-General then declared, “The United Nations cannot tolerate apartheid. It is a legalised system of racial discrimination, violating the most basic human rights in South Africa. It contradicts the letter and spirit of the United Nations Charter. That is why over the last forty years, my predecessors and I have urged the Government of South Africa to dismantle it.”

Now, although apartheid is no longer practised in that country, other forms of apartheid are being blatantly practised worldwide. For example, sex apartheid is most rampant. Women are subject to abuse and exploitation. They are not treated equally and get less pay than their male counterparts for the same jobs. In employment, promotions, possession of property etc., they are most discriminated against. Similarly, the rights of children are not observed properly. They are forced to work hard in very dangerous situations, sexually assaulted and exploited, sold and bonded for labour.

The Commission found that religious persecution, torture, summary executions without judicial trials, intolerance, slavery-like practices, kidnapping, political disappearance, etc., are being practised even in the so-called advanced countries and societies. The continued acts of extreme violence, terrorism and extremism in various parts of the world like Pakistan, India, Iraq, Afghanistan, Israel, Somalia, Algeria, Lebanon, Chile, China, and Myanmar, etc., by the governments, terrorists, religious fundamentalists, and mafia outfits, etc., is a matter of grave concern for the entire human race.

Violation of freedom and rights by terrorist groups backed by states is one of the most difficult problems society faces. For example, Pakistan has been openly collaborating with various terrorist groups, indulging in extreme violence in India and other countries. In this regard the U.N. Human Rights Commission in Geneva adopted a significant resolution, which was co-sponsored by India, focusing on gross violation of human rights perpetrated by state-backed terrorist groups.

The resolution expressed its solidarity with the victims of terrorism and proposed that a U.N. Fund for victims of terrorism be established soon. The Indian delegation recalled that according to the Vienna Declaration, terrorism is nothing but the destruction of human rights. It shows total disregard for the lives of innocent men, women and children. The delegation further argued that terrorism cannot be treated as a mere crime because it is systematic and widespread in its killing of civilians.

Violation of human rights, whether by states, terrorists, separatist groups, armed fundamentalists or extremists, is condemnable. Regardless of the motivation, such acts should be condemned categorically in all forms and manifestations, wherever and by whomever they are committed, as acts of aggression aimed at destroying human rights, fundamental freedom and democracy. The Indian delegation also underlined concerns about the growing connection between terrorist groups and the consequent commission of serious crimes. These include rape, torture, arson, looting, murder, kidnappings, blasts, and extortion, etc.

Violation of human rights and freedom gives rise to alienation, dissatisfaction, frustration and acts of terrorism. Governments run by ambitious and self-seeking people often use repressive measures and find violence and terror an effective means of control. However, state terrorism, violence, and human freedom transgressions are very dangerous strategies. This has been the background of all revolutions in the world. Whenever there is systematic and widespread state persecution and violation of human rights, rebellion and revolution have taken place. The French, American, Russian and Chinese Revolutions are glowing examples of human history.

The first war of India’s Independence in 1857 resulted from long and systematic oppression of the Indian masses. The rapidly increasing discontent, frustration and alienation with British rule gave rise to strong national feelings and demand for political privileges and rights. Ultimately the Indian people, under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, made the British leave India, setting the country free and independent.

Human rights and freedom ought to be preserved at all costs. Their curtailment degrades human life. The political needs of a country may reshape Human rights, but they should not be completely distorted. Tyranny, regimentation, etc., are inimical of humanity and should be resisted effectively and united. The sanctity of human values, freedom and rights must be preserved and protected. Human Rights Commissions should be established in all countries to take care of human freedom and rights. In cases of violation of human rights, affected individuals should be properly compensated, and it should be ensured that these do not take place in future.

These commissions can become effective instruments in percolating the sensitivity to human rights down to the lowest levels of governments and administrations. The formation of the National Human Rights Commission in October 1993 in India is commendable and should be followed by other countries.

Also Read: Law Courses in India

Human rights are of utmost importance to seek basic equality and human dignity. Human rights ensure that the basic needs of every human are met. They protect vulnerable groups from discrimination and abuse, allow people to stand up for themselves, and follow any religion without fear and give them the freedom to express their thoughts freely. In addition, they grant people access to basic education and equal work opportunities. Thus implementing these rights is crucial to ensure freedom, peace and safety.

Human Rights Day is annually celebrated on the 10th of December.

Human Rights Day is celebrated to commemorate the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the UNGA in 1948.

Some of the common Human Rights are the right to life and liberty, freedom of opinion and expression, freedom from slavery and torture and the right to work and education.

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We hope our sample essays on Human Rights have given you some great ideas. For more information on such interesting blogs, visit our essay writing page and follow Leverage Edu .

Sonal is a creative, enthusiastic writer and editor who has worked extensively for the Study Abroad domain. She splits her time between shooting fun insta reels and learning new tools for content marketing. If she is missing from her desk, you can find her with a group of people cracking silly jokes or petting neighbourhood dogs.

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