Q1Human Rights

Historical Origins of Human Rights
The concept of human rights has ancient roots, with fundamental principles introduced by the
Holy Prophet (PBUH) approximately 1400 years ago. These early ideas laid the groundwork for
recognizing human rights as essential.
Development Through Democracy
As nations embraced democracy, the importance of human rights grew. A notable example is the
French Revolution, where France transitioned away from aristocratic rule, and its constitution
was shaped by emerging human rights principles.
Pakistan’s Adoption of Human Rights
Pakistan incorporated fundamental rights in its first Constitution of 1956, which were further
emphasized in the Constitution of 1973 under Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. The inclusion of these
rights was also debated in the 1962 Constitution, but societal pressure led to their eventual
adoption.
Evolving Concept of Human Rights
According to Encyclopedia Britannica, modern human rights ideas, particularly from the 18th
century, are part of a much older tradition. The understanding and integration of human rights
continue to evolve, becoming central to legal frameworks worldwide.
 Universal Human Rights
Universal human rights are the fundamental rights and freedoms that every person, regardless of
nationality, race, religion, or any other status, is entitled to by virtue of being human. These
rights are inherent, inalienable, and universally applicable. They are protected and promoted
through a vast body of international laws, conventions, treaties, and norms that oblige states and
other duty-bearers to ensure the protection of these rights for every individual.
1. Universality and Inalienability:
The principle of universality means that human rights apply to every individual without
exception, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, gender, religion, or any other status. This principle
was first clearly stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) of 1948 and
has been reaffirmed in subsequent international conventions and agreements, including the
Vienna World Conference on Human Rights in 1993. The inalienability of human rights
means they cannot be taken away, except in specific situations and according to due process. For
instance, rights like freedom may be restricted if a person is lawfully convicted of a crime, but
even then, the basic dignity of that individual must be respected.
2. Interdependence and Indivisibility:

Human rights are interdependent and indivisible, meaning no right is more important than
another, and the enjoyment of one right often depends on the fulfillment of others. For example,
the right to education is closely linked to the right to work, as education enhances job
opportunities. Similarly, civil and political rights, like the right to participate in government or
the right to a fair trial, are interconnected with economic, social, and cultural rights, such as the
right to health care or housing. Violating or denying one right can lead to the infringement of
others, demonstrating the interconnected nature of all rights.
3. Equality and Non-Discrimination:
Equality and non-discrimination are fundamental principles of human rights. This means that all
people are entitled to enjoy their rights equally, without discrimination based on race, gender,
sexual orientation, religion, or any other characteristic. Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of
Human Rights states: "All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights." This
principle is reinforced by international treaties such as the International Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) and the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). These instruments
work to combat various forms of inequality and ensure that human rights are upheld for all.
Rights and Obligations
Human rights come with both rights and obligations. States must:
 Respect human rights by refraining from interference.

 Protect individuals and groups from human rights abuse.
 Fulfill human rights by taking proactive measures to ensure their enjoyment.
At the individual level, everyone is entitled to their rights, but they must also respect the rights of
others.
Characteristics of Human Rights
1. Fundamental for a Better Life: Rights are essential for individuals to lead a dignified
and fulfilling life.
2. State Protection: The state is responsible for safeguarding and enforcing the rights of its
citizens.
3. Equal for All: All rights are available equally to everyone, without discrimination based
on factors such as gender, race, or ethnicity.
4. Universal: Human rights apply universally to all people, regardless of nationality,
culture, or social status.
5. Indivisible: All rights are interdependent and cannot be treated in isolation; denying one
affects others.
6. Inalienable: Human rights cannot be taken away, except in certain legal situations, such
as imprisonment following a fair trial.
7. Non-Discriminatory: Rights must be applied fairly and without prejudice to ensure
equality for all.

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Q1Human Rights

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Historical Origins of Human Rights

Development Through Democracy

Pakistan’s Adoption of Human Rights

Evolving Concept of Human Rights

 Universal Human Rights

1. Universality and Inalienability:

2. Interdependence and Indivisibility:

3. Equality and Non-Discrimination:

Rights and Obligations

 Respect human rights by refraining from interference.

Characteristics of Human Rights

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