The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted on 10 December 1948, is one of the most profound works of human civilization. It asserts, for the first time in history, the equality of all human beings, without distinction, in law and in dignity.

This “common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations” must be defended today more forcefully than ever. Despite the considerable progress made in more than half a century, the global scandal of poverty and inequality and the violence of racism, discrimination and conflict are massive and unacceptable violations of fundamental rights. Today in the Middle East and elsewhere millions of women and men are being forced into exile, risking their lives to escape persecution: thousands are dying on the way, and others face rejection, suspicion and hatred. Millions of people are forced to flee the consequences of climate change in which they have no hand. It is the poorest and most vulnerable everywhere who are suffering the most.

• Complete message (PDF)
• About the Human Rights Day 2015