We live in a challenging time for human rights. There are more people fleeing violence and unrest than at any time since the Second World War. Widespread attacks on human rights defenders, peaceful protesters, prisoners of conscience, journalists, dissidents and minorities are continuing.
We live in a world where leaders and politicians wielding a toxic, dehumanising “us vs them” rhetoric are creating a more divided and dangerous world. The limits of what is acceptable have shifted. Politicians are now shamelessly and actively legitimising hateful rhetoric and policies based on people’s identity: misogyny, racism and homophobia.
The consequences of an “us vs them” rhetoric setting the agenda in Europe and the United States is fuelling a global pushback against human rights. We are facing what could turn into a major roll-back on long-established human rights around the world.
We must join together and stand up for the dignity and equality of all people everywhere. We must resist injustice every step of the way. This is not the moment to sit down in frustration. This is the time to stand together in unity and defend our universal freedoms.