How to Craft an Impactful Speech on Human Rights Day
Human rights are as old as the civilisation of human beings. Human rights allow the person to live a life of descent with dignity, equality and authority. They fall under the category of legal rights, which is why one may go to the court of law in case of violation of these rights and appeal against the breach of his human rights. Human rights are fundamental, non-transferable and inseparable.
Long and Short Human Rights Day Speech for School
Long Human Rights Day Speech
Today, I am here to deliver a speech on Human Rights Day. December 10th is recognized as Human Rights Day. This is a worldwide gathering, a celebration of human rights. Human rights address the rights entitled to every citizen. These rights are inherited from the birth of a human being and no one can replace them.
On December 4th, 1950, the General Assembly of the United Nations welcomed its state representatives and other organisations to the Human Rights Day Agreement. The declaration of 10 December as Human Rights Day was mutually decided upon by the overwhelming support of its 48 state representatives and other organizations. It promotes the equality of human rights for every person, regardless of caste, religion, gender, culture, religion, etc.
The National Human Rights Commission was founded in India in 1993 to protect the basic rights of people, children, women, the rights of senior citizens and the rights of the LGBT community. The Indian Human Rights Law was established on 28 September 1993, and numerous changes to this law have been enforced by the government since then.
Human Rights Day emphasizes the significance of citizens' social equality, democracy, social justice and social importance. It also tries to crack the different social taboos that remain in the world. Let's look at some of the facts surrounding Human Rights Day:
A rally in Hong Kong was organised by Civil Human Rights in the year 2019. Five demands were protested at the gathering.
In the year 2018, the theme of Human Rights Day was "Stand up for Human Rights."
Human Rights Day marked the year 2017 with "Let's stand up for equality, justice, and human dignity"
In 1978, when Human Rights Day was celebrated in Taiwan, numerous people were detained by the police.
In 2011, the celebration of Human Rights Day via social media was used as a platform for Tunisia and other countries around the world to take place.
Human Rights Day is a time for current developments to be commented on. It is also time to look back to the time when, on December 10th 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted. At that moment, imagine the world. People were still shell-shocked by the Second World War bloodshed and numb from the horrors of the death camps of the Nazis. And, notwithstanding the Peace, people were always fearful of the future, of the possibility of new wars, carnage, etc. You get a sense of motivation of the ones who have drawn up the Universal Declaration, by imagining the world at that moment.
Although the Universal Declaration's language is very plain, it delivers a strong message. It envisages a world where nations cultivate friendly and respectful relations with each other; where individuals enjoy a better standard of living; and where human rights are widely respected. It also points out, critically, what certain basic human rights are.
Short Speech on Human Rights Day
December 10th is celebrated as Human Rights Day. It is an event celebrated throughout the world, a celebration of basic human rights and values. With overwhelming support from its 48 state legislators and other organisations, the declaration of December 10th as Human Rights Day was mutually agreed upon.
It promotes equality of rights, regardless of caste, religion, gender, culture and religion, for every individual. To protect the civil rights of persons, children, women and the rights of senior citizens, the National Human Rights Commission was established in India in 1993. The theme was "Stand up for Human Rights" in 2018 and "Let's stand up for equality, justice, and human dignity" in 2017.
The Human Rights Day celebration via social media as a forum for Tunisia and other nations around the world took place in 2011. Numerous people were arrested by the police in 1978 when Human Rights Day was celebrated in Taiwan. In 2011, "Equality, justice and dignity" was the theme of Human Rights Day. A future where human rights are universally recognized is envisaged in the Universal Declaration. It also, importantly, points out what these fundamental human rights are.
The fact that governments and other public bodies accept almost all of the recommendations made by the NHRC is reflective of its integrity. It also represents the trust put in this remarkable institution by the people. It has given relief to thousands of people and has corrected a lot of wrongs since its inception. The Commission also takes suo motu cognizance of allegations of human rights abuses with great alacrity, apart from responding to hundreds of complaints it receives daily. Through seeking to coordinate relief, and ensuring disciplinary action from authorities, the NHRC responds to and addresses human rights abuses.
Human Rights day fundamentally plays a role in the promotion, celebration and inspiration of a human being's rights. It makes individuals and our new and next-generation conscious of the rights that a human being has.
10 Lines for Speech on World Human Rights Day
Human rights are the fundamental freedom that all citizens must-have for their fundamental needs and capabilities.
There are two forms of human rights, one of which is necessary for decent human life, e.g. bread, clothing and shelter.
Another form of human right is that which is necessary for a human personality to grow adequately, such as education, health, sanitation, etc.
The UNHRC (United Nations Human Rights Council) was founded on 15 March 2006 to safeguard human rights all over the world.
On October 12, 1993, the NHRC (National Human Rights Commission) was set up in India to protect the human rights of its people.
Amnesty International, or AI, is an international NGO headquartered in London that campaigns against human rights abuses worldwide.
To track and protect these rights, governments of different countries and several non-governmental organizations have also been established.
These groups are trying to spread an understanding of human rights so that individuals are fully aware of their rights.
During wars or violent struggles, the immense severity of human rights abuses can be seen.
In those countries that have a dictatorship, autocratic rule or a single party's rule, abuse of human rights is often seen.
FAQs on Human Rights Day Speech: Speak Up for Justice and Equality
1. What is the main purpose of giving a Human Rights Day speech on promoting equality and justice?
The primary purpose is to inform the audience about the fundamental principles of human rights, persuade them to actively support these values, and inspire action towards a more equitable and just world. A good speech commemorates the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and connects its historical significance to present-day challenges and responsibilities.
2. How should I structure a short 2-minute speech on Human Rights Day for a school assembly?
For a concise and impactful 2-minute speech, follow a clear three-part structure:
- Introduction (30 seconds): Start with a powerful quote or a thought-provoking question to grab attention. Clearly state your topic: promoting equality and justice on Human Rights Day.
- Body (60 seconds): Focus on one or two key messages. For instance, explain what a specific right (like the right to education) means and give one powerful example of why it's crucial for equality.
- Conclusion (30 seconds): Summarise your main point and end with a strong, memorable call to action, urging your peers to take a small step towards upholding someone's rights.
3. What key points can I include to make a 1-minute speech on human rights effective?
In a 1-minute speech, brevity is key. Focus on a single, powerful idea. Start by defining human rights in one simple sentence, such as, "Human rights are the basic freedoms that belong to every single one of us." Then, share one relatable example of a right in action. Conclude with a sharp, memorable line like, "Let's not just know our rights; let's defend them for everyone, every day."
4. What are some powerful opening and closing lines for a speech about human rights?
Effective openings and closings make a speech memorable. For your opening, try:
- A rhetorical question: "What does it truly mean to be free and equal?"
- A startling fact: "Did you know that millions of children today are denied their basic right to education?"
- A powerful quote: "As Eleanor Roosevelt said, 'Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home...'"
For your closing, aim for impact:
- A call to action: "Today, I urge each of you to stand up for one person's rights. That is how change begins."
- A vision of the future: "Let's build a world where equality and justice are not just ideals, but our shared reality."
5. How is writing a speech on human rights different from writing an essay on the same topic?
While both require strong arguments, a speech is crafted for the ear, while an essay is for the eye. The key differences are:
- Tone: A speech uses a more direct, personal, and conversational tone. You use words like "we," "you," and "us" to connect with the audience.
- Language: Speeches use simpler sentences, repetition, and rhetorical questions to keep listeners engaged and help them remember key points.
- Structure: A speech is structured for oral delivery, with clear signposts like "First...", "More importantly...", and "In conclusion..." to guide the audience. An essay can have more complex paragraphs and transitions.
6. Beyond just stating facts, how can I make my speech on equality and justice emotionally persuasive?
To make your speech persuasive, you need to connect with the audience's emotions, not just their intellect. You can achieve this by:
- Using storytelling: Instead of listing articles from the UDHR, tell a short, impactful story about a real or fictional person whose life was changed by the protection (or violation) of their rights.
- Employing vivid imagery: Use descriptive language that helps your audience picture the concepts of justice and inequality.
- Sharing a personal connection: If appropriate, explain why this topic matters to you personally. Authenticity is a powerful tool for persuasion.
7. Why is it important to address both 'equality' and 'justice' in a Human Rights Day speech?
It's crucial because they are related but distinct concepts that reinforce each other. Equality refers to providing everyone with the same opportunities and rights from the start. Justice often involves addressing and remedying historical or systemic disadvantages to create a truly level playing field. A powerful speech explains that you cannot have one without the other; true equality is only possible in a just society where fairness is actively pursued and imbalances are corrected.
8. What common mistakes should students avoid when delivering a speech on a sensitive topic like human rights?
To ensure your message is received well, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Being too abstract: Don't just talk about vague concepts. Use concrete, relatable examples to illustrate your points.
- Sounding preachy: Instead of telling the audience what to think, guide them to their own conclusions using questions and stories.
- Information overload: Avoid overwhelming your audience with too many statistics or facts. Focus on a few powerful points.
- A weak conclusion: Never end your speech with "...and that's it." Always have a planned, impactful final sentence that serves as a strong call to action or leaves a lasting thought.
