Violations of human rights diminish our dignity: says Commonwealth Secretary-General

Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon today issued the following statement to mark Human Rights Day:

"What dehumanises you inexorably dehumanises me." These words, by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, ring as loudly today as when they were spoken. Respect for fundamental human rights is a core Commonwealth principle, enshrined in the Harare Commonwealth Declaration. We celebrate Human Rights Day today as a re-affirmation of our core commitment to the inherent dignity of all human beings. Any violation of human rights diminishes our own human dignity.

Taking human rights seriously means recognising the equal worth of all human lives and the right of all people to fundamental political and civil rights such as equality before the law, freedom of expression, association and assembly.

Human rights are also about social and economic development. It is important to recognise that whilst millions of people do not have access to clean water, food, education and proper health care, they will not have the opportunity to realise their potential and rise above the mire of poverty.

Human Rights Day is an opportunity to renew our collective commitment to the values of freedom, equality and respect for human dignity, which are the cornerstones of social justice and human development.