Who was involved in the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights?

History The Universal Declaration Of Human Rights Questions Long



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Who was involved in the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights?

The drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) involved a diverse group of individuals from different countries and backgrounds. The main contributors to the drafting process were representatives from the United Nations (UN) member states, who formed the UN Commission on Human Rights (UNCHR) in 1946.

The UNCHR was chaired by Eleanor Roosevelt, the former First Lady of the United States and human rights advocate. She played a crucial role in guiding the drafting process and ensuring the inclusion of various perspectives. Other prominent figures involved in the drafting process were René Cassin, a French jurist and Nobel laureate, and John Peters Humphrey, a Canadian legal scholar.

In addition to the UNCHR members, the drafting process also benefited from the expertise and input of numerous experts and advisors. These experts included legal scholars, philosophers, and representatives from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society groups. Their contributions helped shape the content and principles of the UDHR.

The drafting process involved extensive consultations and discussions among the participants. Different countries and regions brought their unique perspectives and concerns to the table, leading to lively debates and negotiations. The goal was to create a document that would reflect the shared values and aspirations of humanity while respecting the diverse cultural, social, and political contexts of the member states.

The drafting process took place over a period of two years, from 1946 to 1948. During this time, multiple drafts were circulated, revised, and refined based on feedback and input from the participants. The final draft of the UDHR was adopted by the UN General Assembly on December 10, 1948, with 48 member states voting in favor and none opposing.

It is important to note that while the drafting process involved a wide range of individuals, the final responsibility for the content and adoption of the UDHR lies with the member states of the United Nations. The UDHR stands as a testament to the collective efforts of these individuals and nations to establish a universal framework for the protection and promotion of human rights.