Skopje, North Macedonia, December 10, 2024
On International Human Rights Day, CIVIL – Center for Freedom alarms the world to the grim reality that human rights are under siege across the globe. From the devastating impacts of war to the suppression of freedoms by authoritarian regimes – the principles of dignity, justice, and equality are crushed daily.
In Ukraine, Russian aggression exposes the horrifying consequences of unchecked tyranny, while in the Middle East, cycles of violence continue to wreak havoc on innocent lives. War crimes, including the deliberate targeting of civilians, systemic torture, and the use of starvation as a weapon, have become alarmingly normalized. These tragedies are part of a broader, coordinated assault on human rights that feeds on fear and division to silence voices and crush resistance.
The destruction of schools, hospitals, and humanitarian corridors demonstrates a shocking disregard for international law and the sanctity of life. These crimes demand not only global condemnation but decisive, united action to bring perpetrators to justice and prevent further atrocities.
Even in the face of these challenges, there is reason for hope. Human rights defenders, independent journalists, and countless ordinary people continue to stand up for truth and justice, refusing to be silenced. CIVIL calls on governments, organizations, and individuals to renew their commitment to the universal values of freedom, equality, and human dignity. We must prioritize education, media literacy, and civic engagement as powerful tools to counter propaganda, hate, and extremism.
This Human Rights Day, CIVIL urges everyone to join the fight for accountability, solidarity, and a future where human rights are protected, respected, and upheld by all, and for all. The path forward is extremely challenging, but it is one we must take together – for the sake of humanity and the generations to come.
CIVIL – Center for Freedom
Please visit the #DefendingDemocracy website to learn about the international conference in Skopje, December 11-12.
