Today, on International Human Rights Day, the Republic of Bulgaria commemorates the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, together with other UN Member States
10 December 2023 News
Today, on International Human Rights Day, the Republic of Bulgaria commemorates the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, together with other UN Member States. This universal document paves the way for all major international human rights treaties. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights also serves as an inspiration and standard for national human rights legislation around the world. The importance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is linked both to the timeless, universal human principles and values it affirms and to its long history and universal acceptance.
Despite the significant progress made since 1948, the world today continues to need the active efforts of all concerned — governments, international organizations and civil society — to protect and promote human rights. Only joint efforts can ensure that the many challenges of our time are overcome and that the principles of freedom, dignity and justice for all, which are enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, are upheld.
The Republic of Bulgaria consistently adheres to the highest international human rights standards, enshrined in the spirit and letter of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This year our country was elected by an overwhelming majority of UN member states as a member of the UN Human Rights Council for the period 2024—2026. This is a sign of trust and appreciation for Bulgaria's achievements in the field of human rights. In the context of international instability and growing challenges to the foundations of a rule-based world order, our country is committed to working hard for dialogue, cooperation and respect for human rights as the supreme guarantee of peace and prosperity for humanity.
The Republic of Bulgaria will continue to pay special attention to the protection of the rights of women and girls and their empowerment, to the protection of children and their education, and to efforts for the full inclusion of persons with disabilities in all areas of public life. The Republic of Bulgaria remains actively engaged in the fight against intolerance, discrimination, hate speech and hate crimes. In our contemporary context, countering misinformation is becoming increasingly important for guaranteeing human rights.
On International Human Rights Day, it is important that we all come together to recall the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and reaffirm our resolve to make them a reality.