Human Rights
Human rights is the true test of a fair society - and human rights groups are crucial in protecting ordinary people and promoting development
Freedom of expression and of association are essential components of human rights, as are the principles of equality and diversity, and non-discrimination.
Such universal standards transcend cultural and national boundaries, reflect principles and teachings from all the major faiths, and are encapsulated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).
Countries which respect the rights of their citizens are safer places in which to live and work, trade with or visit, and are more likely to settle disputes peacefully. Promotion of human rights is not only the right thing to do, but tangibly in our own best interests.
The indigenous territory of Raposa Serra do Sol in Roraima continues to be occupied illegally by a group of powerful rice farmers. Jacir José de Souza, a founding member of our partner CIR (Indigenous Council of Roraima), says: “For us our land is our Mother. It gives us a home, soil, fruit, vegetables, fish. Without our land we would starve - this is why we defend our rights."
