December 10, 2023, marked the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Human Rights Declaration, and the United Nations marked the event with a global event where it all began.


Four remarkable teenagers, Anghelina, Anna Katherina, Doris, and Fran, shared their stories and work with human rights in their countries. Each of the young women hails from diverse backgrounds—from the poverty-stricken neighborhoods of Venezuela to the shanty compounds of Zambia. They confront socioeconomic disparities head-on, driven by a desire to effect change in their communities and advocate for amplifying children's voices, underscoring the imperative for inclusive decision-making processes. The United Nations Human Rights Office of the High Commissioner describes their stories in an article dated February 24, 2024.


Anna Katherina, a 17-year-old young woman from Venezuela, is impassioned by her own encounters with bullying and champions the inherent entitlement of all individuals to fundamental rights.


Doris, a 15-year-old teenager from Zambia, is propelled by the stark realities of her upbringing. She describes the challenges of translating advocacy into tangible action, highlighting the critical need for platforms that empower children to articulate their narratives.


Anghelina, a 14-year-old girl from Moldova, infuses her activism with personal anecdotes of injustice. Through her involvement in various initiatives, including the "Block the hatred, share the love" European Union program, she spearheads efforts to foster youth participation in political discourse.


Fran, a 15-year-old from Croatia, underscores the importance of cultivating a child-friendly ethos within communities. She champions the establishment of platforms that afford children agency in decision-making processes.


Their collective endeavor with Child Rights Connect and UN Human Rights yields tangible outcomes, catalyzing the development of child-friendly resources and global surveys. The Children's Vision for Human Rights report, a culmination of their collaborative efforts, articulates a compelling call to action. It implores stakeholders to prioritize children as equal partners in pursuing human rights, advocating for enhanced resource accessibility and meaningful engagement opportunities.


Imma Guerras-Delgado, UN Human Rights' Coordinator of the Child and Youth Rights Unit lauds their contributions as a beacon of progress, affirming the indispensable role of children in shaping a fairer future. Alex Conte, Executive Director of Child Rights Connect, echoes this sentiment, applauding UN Human Rights for its commitment to integrating children into decision-making processes.


In the face of adversity, these young activists transcend geographical boundaries and societal constraints, embarking on a collective journey towards a more just and equitable world. Their unwavering resolve serves as a testament to the transformative power of youth activism, igniting a beacon of hope in the pursuit of universal human rights. As they continue to navigate the complexities of advocacy, their voices resonate as a call for change, inspiring future generations.


Young people are aware and interested in human rights. What can you do in your hometown? Here are five actions you can take in your local community to support youth and cultivate interest in human rights:

1. Organize Workshops and Discussions: Host workshops and discussion forums focused on human rights issues tailored to the interests and concerns of young people. Topics could include discrimination, bullying, environmental justice, or refugee rights. Invite local activists, educators, or representatives from human rights organizations to facilitate these sessions and provide valuable insights.

2. Establish Youth Clubs or Organizations: Create youth clubs or organizations dedicated to human rights advocacy and education. These clubs can serve as safe spaces for young people to learn about human rights, discuss pressing issues, and plan community projects or awareness campaigns. Encourage active participation and leadership development among club members.

3. Collaborate with Schools and Universities: Partner with schools and universities to integrate human rights education into curricula or extracurricular activities. Offer guest lectures, workshops, or educational materials on human rights topics. Collaborate with teachers and professors to incorporate discussions on human rights issues into various subjects, fostering critical thinking and empathy among students.

4. Support Youth-led Initiatives: Identify and support youth-led initiatives focused on human rights within your community. Offer mentorship, resources, or funding to help young activists organize events, campaigns, or projects addressing local human rights challenges. Amplify their voices by sharing their initiatives on social media or collaborating with local media outlets to raise awareness.

5. Create Artistic and Creative Platforms: Harness the power of art, music, and storytelling to engage young people in human rights advocacy. Organize art exhibitions, film screenings, or spoken word events showcasing works that explore human rights themes. Provide opportunities for young artists, musicians, and writers to express their perspectives on social justice issues and inspire dialogue within the community.


By taking these actions, you can actively support youth in your local community and foster a culture of empathy, activism, and respect for human rights.


Photo by RDNE Stock Project on Pexels.