For the last speakers’ corner session of the autumn term, we invite you to join this conversation to understand, challenge, and shape the course of human rights discourse.

 

December 10th, 2023 marks the 75th anniversary of the proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)—a pivotal moment in history that sought to address the aftermath of World War II. While the state of human rights today may appear less than encouraging, it is an opportune time to delve into the enduring significance of the declaration and reflect on why its principles remain relevant.

 

Andrea Biswas (IRPS), Rafael Carrano (IL/ANSO), and Liline Steyn (IL) will have a conversation around three pressing and evolving issues within the human rights field: sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI), children’s rights, and corporate responsibilities. These issues serve as barometers of the transformation in efforts to broaden human rights protections against both longstanding and contemporary threats. During the discussion, we will explore the extent of change in the human rights landscape for these critical concerns since the declaration's inception in 1948. Moreover, we will scrutinise the question of whether it is worthwhile to revive our commitment to the UDHR in the present context. Join us as we examine the approaches employed at the IHEID to study human rights and discuss the potential for "decolonising" and bringing new voices to the field.