THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS - WHAT’S HAPPENING?

Q: What is the commemorative year about?

A: The commemorative year of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights runs from December 10, 1997 to December 10, 1998. To mark 50 years since the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the General Assembly of the United Nations, various communities around the world will be coordinating events and activities to raise awareness of the Declaration and of the significant role it plays in our lives.

Q: What’s happening in Canada around the Anniversary?

A: Lots! UNA-Canada, in partnership with the Department of Canadian Heritage, will be acting as a clearinghouse to encourage and foster local and nation-wide participation. Our primary role will be to generate interest and awareness around the Anniversary and build links between the efforts of Canadians. Already, there have been positive responses from governments and community groups across the country, who plan to commemorate the anniversary through programmes, events and activities around human rights issues, by working the Declaration themes into already-planned community events, and many other activities.

Q: What exactly is the role of the United Nations Association in Canada during the commemorative year?

A: In addition to the role of a clearinghouse, UNA-Canada will act as a catalytic force in other ways. Through our website and resource centre, we will continue to serve as a resource for information around human rights issues and the United Nations. For the Declaration’s anniversary, we have created a page on our website with key points of reference, a calendar of events and information concerning events occurring around the commemorative year. We are very excited about continuing our commitment to education, with our recent project of producing a set of action guides on the subject of human rights to be distributed nationally to secondary schools.

Q: How can I play a role during the Anniversary year?

A: Any initiative, large or small, is a valuable contribution to the commemorative year. In fact, through our office and website, you can get a copy of A Common Agenda which contains a summary of 101 fun, informative and easy activities in which you and the members of your organization and/or community can engage. An important aspect of the commemorative year is that every sector of our community has something to contribute to and benefit from this important event. As such, all kinds of organizations and community groups are being solicited to participate for the Anniversary, such as local theater groups, women’s organizations and local ombudspersons. And of course, the best kind of action begins with the individual. Spreading the word about the Anniversary of the Declaration is also important. Honoring people in your local community who are active in the human rights field is just one of many ways to activate members of your community. To get more ideas of what you can do or to find out what is going on in your region, please do not hesitate to call us at (613) 232-5751 or consult the calendar of events on our website.

Q: Where can I get copies of the Universal Declaration?

A: A copy of the Universal Declaration is posted on our website. Copies of the Declaration are also available through our resource centre at a minimal charge to cover shipping and handling costs.

Q: Where do we go if we want more resources?

A: On our website, you will find an annotated bibliography of selected websites which can provide you with more information on specific human rights issues and a select bibliography of key printed resources. We also sell publications on the United Nations and human rights. To order these publications, you may contact Rory O’Connor at (613) 232-5751, ext. 224.

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