Eleanor Roosevelt addresses the United Nations on the ratification of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Summary

The speaker reflects on the significance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, positioning it as a pivotal moment in both the history of the United Nations and humanity. They draw parallels between this declaration and other historical milestones, such as the 1789 Declaration of the Rights of Man in France, the U.S. Bill of Rights, and similar declarations across different nations. The speech emphasizes the hope that the proclamation will have a transformative, global impact, comparable to these earlier foundational documents.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Universal Declaration of Human Rights marks a significant moment in both the history of the United Nations and humanity.
• 😀 This event is seen as a major milestone, with the potential to become a universal standard for human rights worldwide.
• 😀 The declaration is being compared to other historic documents like the French Declaration of the Rights of Man (1789).
• 😀 The adoption of the Declaration is hoped to be an event of similar significance to the U.S. Bill of Rights.
• 😀 The proclamation of this Declaration is an important step in the international recognition of human rights.
• 😀 The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is part of a broader tradition of rights declarations across different countries.
• 😀 The document aims to set a global standard for human rights that can be recognized and applied universally.
• 😀 The speaker highlights the historical importance of the Declaration, likening it to other landmark rights documents.
• 😀 The proclamation of the Declaration by the UN General Assembly is seen as a momentous global event.
• 😀 This Declaration is anticipated to be a milestone for the international community, setting a precedent for human dignity and rights.

Q & A

What is the central theme of the script?

The central theme of the script is the importance and significance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and its potential impact on humanity and international law.

How does the speaker compare the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to historical events?

The speaker compares the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to significant historical events such as the proclamation of the Declaration of the Rights of Man by the French in 1789, the adoption of the Bill of Rights by the United States, and similar declarations by other countries.

Why does the speaker mention the Declaration of the Rights of Man of 1789?

The speaker mentions the Declaration of the Rights of Man to highlight its historical importance as a foundational moment in human rights, drawing a parallel to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as another key milestone for global human rights.

What significance does the speaker attribute to the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights?

The speaker attributes great significance to the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, suggesting that it may become the international standard for human rights, similar to past declarations that have shaped the course of history.

How does the speaker describe the potential impact of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on the global stage?

The speaker suggests that the proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights will be a momentous event in the life of both the United Nations and humanity, potentially having a profound influence on international relations and the recognition of human rights worldwide.

What role does the United Nations play in the context of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights?

The United Nations is portrayed as a central body responsible for the proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and its adoption by the General Assembly is seen as a key event for the UN and for humanity.

Why is the adoption of the Bill of Rights by the United States mentioned?

The adoption of the Bill of Rights by the United States is mentioned to further emphasize the historical importance of legal documents that affirm the rights and freedoms of individuals, drawing a parallel to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

What does the speaker hope for the proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights?

The speaker hopes that the proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights will be an event of great significance, comparable to other major historical declarations, such as those in France and the United States, that have advanced human rights.

How does the speaker envision the future legacy of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights?

The speaker envisions the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as potentially becoming the international magnate of all men everywhere, a standard for human dignity and rights across the globe.

What historical documents does the speaker reference to underline the importance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights?

The speaker references the Declaration of the Rights of Man (1789), the Bill of Rights of the United States, and similar declarations from other countries to underline the historical importance of such documents in advancing the recognition and protection of human rights.