Human Rights : Meaning and Definition

Human Rights

Human rights are the fundamental entitlements that belong to every individual simply by virtue of being human. They are based on the core values of dignity, equality, and justice.

Meaning of Human Rights

Human Rights are the basic rights and freedoms that belong to every person in the world, from birth until death. They represent the minimal standards necessary for people to live with dignity, freedom, equality, and justice.

  • Inherent: They are not granted by any government or authority; they belong to you simply because you are human.

  • Universal: They apply to everyone, everywhere, at all times.

  • Inalienable: They cannot be taken away, though they can be restricted in specific legal circumstances (e.g., if a person is found guilty of a crime by a court).

  • Indivisible: All human rights are equal in importance. You cannot fully enjoy civil rights without having economic rights, and vice-versa.

Formal Definitions

A. United Nations Definition

The United Nations defines Human Rights as:

"Rights inherent to all human beings, regardless of race, sex, nationality, ethnicity, language, religion, or any other status. Human rights include the right to life and liberty, freedom from slavery and torture, freedom of opinion and expression, the right to work and education, and many more."

B. Statutory Definition in India

Under Section 2(1)(d) of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, human rights are defined as:

"The rights relating to life, liberty, equality and dignity of the individual guaranteed by the Constitution or embodied in the International Covenants and enforceable by courts in India."

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