Universal Human Rights Month is a global observance held every December to raise awareness about the importance of human rights. It is an opportunity to educate ourselves about the fundamental rights and freedoms that every individual deserves, regardless of their background or identity. Moreover, it is a time to engage in meaningful conversations about equality, justice, and the protection of human dignity. 

As the world commemorates the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) – a miraculous text adopted by the United Nations. Retrospectively, it is an opportunity to gain insight into current human rights challenges around the world and actively support positive change. Moreover, Universal Human Rights Month serves as a reminder that human rights are not just theoretical concepts but principles that should be upheld in our daily lives.  

Through the Youth and Human Rights 75 Initiative/OHCHR students have the capability to become advocates for equality and to use their knowledge and skills to promote human rights within their communities.  Given that young people face particular challenges in exercising their rights while often being at the forefront of human rights activism, youth engagement is a key component of the initiative. To ensure such engagement, OHCHR established a Youth Advisory Group, which participates in the design, implementation and follow-up of Human Rights 75 activities.

The Youth Advisory Group consists of twelve inspiring young activists from around the world who work on a wide variety of human rights issues. Read on to become familiar with these inspiring individuals and their initiatives to ensure that young people have a voice in the development of human rights commitments for the future. Discover how YOU can promote equality and initiate positive change!