WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL), Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (U.S. Helsinki Commission) and Co-Chairman Senator Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD), issued the following statement on the 59th Anniversary of the United Nations (UN) Commission on Human Rights adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights:
“On this day, we honor the 59th Anniversary of the Commission on Human Rights adoption of its Universal Declaration. This historic achievement was the first time a diverse group of individuals had come together with a common goal to address the rights and freedoms for all human beings. As we commemorate this day, it is our hope that the international community will work together to uphold this declaration in an effort to promote universal respect for all,” said Hastings and Cardin.
The Universal Declaration, which was adopted on June 18, 1948, is the most cited human rights document in the world. This declaration has served as the inspiration for international treaties and declarations and has been incorporated into the constitutions and laws of many countries worldwide. For more information, please visit www.un.org.