70 years of Universal Human Rights: Past, Present and Future

Speakers include:

• Dr Malcolm McKinnon – Victoria University of Wellington
• Dr Karanina Sumeo – Human Rights Commission
• Dr Mere Skerrett – Victoria University of Wellington
• Anne-Marie Brook - Motu Research
• Dr Negar Partow – Massey University

Why Human Rights?

Universal human rights are often expressed and guaranteed by law, in the forms of treaties, customary international law, general principles and other sources of international law. International human rights law lays down obligations of Governments to act in certain ways or to refrain from certain acts, in order to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms of individuals or groups. The principle of universality of human rights is the cornerstone of international human rights law. This principle, as first emphasized in the Universal Declaration on Human Rights in 1948, has been reiterated in numerous international human rights conventions, declarations, and resolutions.

The United Nations Association of New Zealand recognizes the importance of world-wide recognition of human rights, and is committed to educating New Zealanders on the importance of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the associated conventions, declarations and resolutions. This is why we invite you to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights with us with this fantastic symposium.