Abstract
The present chapter examines the context for human rights on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It reflects on the proliferation and universality of human rights, amid growing inequalities, fading public support for human rights and questions about whether societies can and should bear the social, economic, cultural and political costs of human rights. The case is made for continued investment in human rights, noting that, in addition to financial investment, a social and political commitment to respect and promote human rights as a value is required. Concrete examples of how investment in human rights has improved well-being are provided. By drawing on the areas of gender equality and climate change, the article illustrates how a rights-based approach can be transformative and sustainable. Finally, the article argues that the ‘human’ part of human rights implores us to continue investing in human rights.
Published Version
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