International Human Rights Day, celebrated yearly on 10th December, commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (EDHR) – a landmark affirmation that every person, everywhere, is entitled to dignity, justice, equality, and freedom. The Universal Declaration of Human Right (UDHR) is a milestone document: the first universal statement to define the basic principles of human rights, available to all regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or any other status.
Each year, a theme is chosen to draw attention to a particular facet of the efforts to uphold human rights. In the past years, these themes have included putting an end to discrimination, fighting poverty, and protecting victims from human rights violations.
The International Human Rights Day 2025 Theme: “Our Everyday Essentials”
This year, the UN Human Rights Day campaign focuses on “Our Everyday Essentials”. The theme draws attention to the simple, daily actions made possible by human rights in practice – such as drinking clean water and living safely, accessing education, or expressing one’s views freely.
Our everyday human rights are deeply rooted in the UHDR, examples being the right to an adequate standard of living, including guarantees of food, basic needs and a health environment (Article 25), the right to freedom of opinion and expression (Article 19), the right to education (Article 26), the right to respect for your family and private life, your home and your correspondence (Article 8) ,and so forth.
The campaign emphasises that human rights are ‘positive, essential and attainable’. Human rights not only protect, but they also enrich and uplift our daily lives – from the food we eat to the opportunities we pursue. Human rights unify us across our differences, and importantly, these are attainable through collective actions, advocacy, and legal protections.
Considering Human Rights Claims in Children’s Legal Representation
One of the roles of the child’s solicitor (together with the guardian) is to holistically scrutinise any case involving children in which they are appointed. Children are of course reliant on the adults around them to ensure they are safe. To assist with this, there are protections under domestic and international law. Written by Catriona Allan
Why International Human Rights Day matters in Family Law Practice?
While International Human Rights Day is global in its reach, its principles are felt and experienced within the family law practice. The standards set out by the UDHR are fundamental in the work of family lawyers on a day-to-day basis. A few examples include the following:
- Helping parents secure safe return of their children into their care.
- Supporting victims of domestic abuse with legal protection and advocacy.
- Negotiating fair financial settlements during separation of couple, so that families can meet basic needs.
- Advocating for children to ensue that they can access essential support from professionals.
The work which is undertaken by family law practitioners is human rights in action. It transforms universal principles into real protections for families navigating challenging periods of their lives.
A Guinness World Record
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights has now been translated into over 530 languages and dialects, earning the Guinness World Record as being the most translated document in the world!
Our Commitment to Families this International Human Rights Day 2025
As we honour this year’s International Human Rights Day, we reflect on the work still to be done and the role we play in advancing human rights at home and in our wider community. This year’s International Human Rights Day reminds us that human rights begin at home, in our relationships, our community, and within the legal system are designed to protect us.
At Goodman Ray Solicitors, we remain committed to ensuring that our client’s humans rights are protected, and that safety, fairness, and respect is afforded to every individual and every family we represent.
International Human Rights Day FAQs
International Human Rights Day highlights the universal principles of dignity, fairness, and protection that underpin modern family law. Goodman Ray say that these principles are reflected daily in the issues families face, whether involving child arrangements, safeguarding concerns, or protection from abuse. Goodman Ray advise that understanding the human rights framework helps clients see how global standards directly influence the legal protections available to them.
Several rights play a central role in family law, including the right to family and private life (Article 8), the right to protection and safety, the right to an adequate standard of living, and the right to access education. Goodman Ray say these rights guide decisions courts make about children, financial matters, and safety measures. Goodman Ray advise that clients should be aware of how these rights shape outcomes and ensure fair treatment throughout their case.
Family law solicitors help to safeguard and uphold clients’ human rights through practical legal support. Goodman Ray say that their work involves advocating for clients’ safety, securing protective orders, promoting fair financial settlements, and ensuring children receive the support they need. Goodman Ray advise that seeking timely legal advice ensures these rights are protected and that families receive the necessary guidance during challenging periods.
Contact us today
If you have any questions or wish to get legal advice on any of the topics raised above please feel free to contact us.
Call us on 020 7608 1227
