Human Rights Day takes place every year on 10th December which is the date that the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948. It is the most translated document around the world and is available in over 500 languages. It has inspired countries all over the world to start treating every person with the right to life, liberty, property and the pursuit of happiness. It proclaims the unquestionable rights which everyone is entitled to as a human being, regardless of their race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status.

Where can I read more? You can read more about human rights and Human Rights Day here.

Links to activities and resources: Amnesty International has produced a range of free resource packs suitable for children and young people in Early Years, primary and secondary school. The packs contain a wealth of resources which include lesson plans with accompanying teacher notes and resources to deliver the lessons. There is also a drama pack available for 7 – 11 years olds as well as a wide range of posters, book recommendations and further activities. To access the downloadable resources, you can visit the website here.

You can download the United Nations publication ‘Teaching Human Rights - Practical activities for primary and secondary schools here.

Since 2006, UNICEF has run the ‘Rights Respecting Schools Award’ initiative which is centred around the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and aims to put children’s rights at the heart of schools in the UK. The UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) works with schools in the UK to create safe and inspiring places to learn, where children are respected, their talents are nurtured and they are able to thrive. The Rights Respecting Schools Award embeds these values in daily school life and gives children the best chance to lead happy, healthy lives and to be responsible, active citizens. You can find out more about the award here.