International Human Rights Day, 10 December 2012

Every year International Human Rights Day is celebrated around the world. It marks the anniversary of the adoption and proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in 1948. The day also recognises the work of those who defend international human rights and aim to end discrimination on a daily basis. Many of these individuals remain anonymous and they undertake their work at great personal risk to themselves and their families.

As part of the Government Employees Medical Scheme's (GEMS') on-going effort to educate our members and future members on a range of healthcare topics, we would like to share and explore certain important healthcare issues. This article looks at the subject of human rights this International Human Rights Day, 10 December.

The struggle for justice
There are countries, however, which do not recognise the rights contained in this document and do not consider these fundamental human rights important. In these countries, there are courageous men and women who struggle daily for justice, freedom and dignity and against discrimination and denial of their rights. They are faced with daily struggles against prejudice and violence.

We make use of this day to highlight the many struggles some communities endure as part of their daily lives. Just a few of these rights include the right to life, liberty and security of person, that no one will be held as slaves, be subjected to degrading treatment or punishment, arbitrary arrest, detention or exile. All of the rights contained in the document have to do with human dignity and equality.

Transforming South Africa
Many struggles were faced in our own country not too long ago. South Africans worked determinedly for the transformation of our country to an open and democratic society based on human dignity, equality and freedom. The Bill of Rights is a foundation of our democracy in South Africa. It preserves the rights of all people in our country and affirms the democratic values of human dignity, equality and freedom.

Let us use this International Human Rights day to educate people, especially children, on their human rights and the importance of upholding them in their communities.

References
1. United Nations, www.un.org
2.Greening the Blue, www.greeningtheblue.org
3.South African Government online, www.info.gov.za