Human Rights Day
Human rights belong to everyone, everywhere, every day.
About
Human Rights Day is observed annually on December 10 — the anniversary of the day the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948. The UDHR is a milestone document proclaiming the inalienable rights which every person is entitled to as a human being, regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, or other status.
History
On December 10, 1948, the UN General Assembly in Paris adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The UN officially proclaimed December 10 as Human Rights Day in 1950, inviting all states and organisations to observe the day. The UDHR has been translated into over 500 languages, making it the most translated document in the world.
Where It's Observed
Cultural Context
US United States
Human Rights Day in the US prompts campaigns by Amnesty International USA, Human Rights Watch, and the ACLU. Focus areas include voting rights, immigration policy, racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and equality legislation — all areas of ongoing advocacy.
KR South Korea
South Korea — itself a nation that overcame decades of authoritarian rule — observes Human Rights Day with strong civic engagement. NGOs highlight North Korea's human rights situation, domestic equality issues, and the rights of migrant workers and refugees.
JP Japan
Japan uses Human Rights Day to address domestic issues including discrimination against Zainichi Korean residents, Burakumin rights, gender equality gaps, and rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. The government runs official awareness campaigns through the Ministry of Justice.
How to Participate
- 01Read the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
- 02Learn about a current human rights campaign or cause
- 03Support Amnesty International or a similar human rights organisation
- 04Hold a community discussion about rights and responsibilities
Frequently asked questions
When is Human Rights Day?+
Human Rights Day is observed annually on December 10. The date is fixed each year — December 10 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is Human Rights Day?+
Human Rights Day is observed annually on December 10 — the anniversary of the day the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948. The UDHR is a milestone document proclaiming the inalienable rights which every person is entitled to as a human bei…
Is Human Rights Day a public holiday?+
Human Rights Day is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.
How can I participate in Human Rights Day?+
Read the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Learn about a current human rights campaign or cause Support Amnesty International or a similar human rights organisation These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe Human Rights Day?+
Global — United Nations initiative.
Mark the date
Download a free printable calendar for 2026 and never miss Human Rights Day.