International Human Rights Day is celebrated worldwide on December 10th to commemorate the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948.
Amid ongoing armed conflicts around the world, including on the European continent, we are witnessing daily violations of fundamental human rights and personal freedoms. This makes it more crucial than ever to reflect on the core principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a cornerstone document that has shaped nearly all international instruments for the protection and promotion of human rights. Unfortunately, even today, we must actively combat inequality and discrimination in all its forms, as the most vulnerable groups—women, children, the elderly, and members of national and other minorities—remain particularly exposed to human rights violations. It is equally important to address violations of political rights in countries with authoritarian regimes.
Croatia, a country that had to defend its freedom and democracy during an imposed war, is deeply aware of the importance of protecting human dignity, justice, and equality. It is committed to promoting human rights and providing humanitarian aid. The protection and promotion of human rights are central to its policies, with a special focus on women’s rights, the search for missing persons, minority protections, and support for persons with disabilities. Racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, religious intolerance, and all other forms of intolerance and discrimination must be fought with zero tolerance. Croatia's goal is to eliminate gender discrimination and build a society where women and men are completely equal.
Furthermore, sustainable development, based on international human rights standards, is essential for Croatia's progress and for the modern world at large.
Croatian diplomacy has achieved several notable successes in the field of human rights in 2024. In October, Croatia, alongside Switzerland, assumed co-chairmanship of the Global Alliance for Missing Persons. This co-chairmanship is highly significant for Croatia, as it enhances its global visibility and acknowledges its efforts to address the issue of missing persons at the national level—a mission Croatia remains committed to pursuing tirelessly.
Another highlight is the Joint Statement on the impact of anti-personnel mines and explosive remnants of war on human rights, presented by Croatia, Albania, Azerbaijan, Chile, Mozambique, and Panama during the 57th session of the UN Human Rights Council. This statement, co-sponsored by an impressive 66 countries, represents one of the largest endorsements for a Croatian-led initiative.
Finally, Croatia places special emphasis on the protection of persons with disabilities. It will spearhead efforts by an interregional group of countries to establish an International Day of Deafblindness under the auspices of the United Nations.
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