WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD), Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (U.S. Helsinki Commission) and Co-Chairman Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) today called for increased attention on human rights abuses in observing International Human Rights Day.
Recognized on December 10th, International Human Rights Day commemorates the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948 by the United Nations General Assembly. While this declaration grew from the legacy of the Holocaust, it also serves as a reminder that breaches of human rights remain a common part of our modern world.
“As basic human rights remain squeezed in developed countries and stable democracies, we cannot afford to scale back our efforts,” said Chairman Cardin. “Whether we are talking about repressed religious or ethnic minorities, Roma facing expulsions, or journalists in peril, it’s our obligation to make sure these communities have strong voices speaking up for them on this day and every day.”
“We will continue to bring attention to human rights concerns, whether they are in Europe, Eurasia, or here in the United States,” said Co-Chairman Hastings. “Let today be a signal of the world’s commitment to those struggling as ethnic minorities, languishing in prison for expressing opposing viewpoints, or generally deprived of their right to life, freedom, and peace.”
