Press Releases

On December 10, every year, we celebrate World Human Rights Day, to commemorate the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.

Seventy-four years after the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we still witness systematic violations of human rights. The pandemic, the war in Ukraine and the crises carousel worldwide all have a common denominator, and that is human suffering. Today is a day of reflection and contemplation rather than a day of celebrations. Especially in our country, where for more than 48 years there have been ongoing violations of the human rights of all Cypriots, as a consequence of the Turkish invasion of 1974.

When Eleanor Roosevelt, who was the prime inspirer of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, envisioned a future without discrimination, she wanted to lay the foundation for a new, inclusive generation, one that would have drawn lessons from the untold pain and destruction caused by World War II. Presenting the Declaration 74 years ago, she was aware of the importance of the text both for the UN and for humanity.

Today, however, the situation is far from ideal. The statistics show an increase in domestic violence and, as a society, we should be concerned about the high rates of abusive behaviour, especially against women and girls. 

This grim reality shows us that every day of the year should be a Human Rights Day. World Human Rights Day is a wake-up call addressed to all of us. Governments are called to work together, strengthening multilateralism and universal solidarity. Within this context, the Republic of Cyprus has submitted a nomination and hopes to be elected, for the first time, as a member of the Human Rights Council, for the period 2025-27.

The Republic of Cyprus remains committed to the defence of human rights and fundamental freedoms of all citizens regardless of origin, class, language, religion or personal beliefs, sexual orientation or persons with disabilities and will continue to fight to guarantee the unhindered enjoyment of these rights.

(MH)