International Human Rights Apply Equally, Despite Cultural Differences Essay

International Human Rights Apply Equally, Despite Cultural Differences - Essay Example xile; right to a fair and public hearing by an impartial tribunal; to be presumed innocent until proven otherwise; freedom from arbitrary interference with his family or home; freedom from attacks on his honor and reputation; freedom of movement and residence within the borders of his country; freedom to leave and return to his country; freedom to seek asylum and to flee persecution; right to a nationality4. Article 16 also emphasizes that men and women of legal age who have no limitations to marry have the right to marry and start a family; to own property and to associate with others; freedom of thought, conscience and religion; freedom of opinion and expression; peaceful assembly and association; to choose government officials; to access public services; to social security; to choose their work and to enjoy just and favorable work conditions, including equal pay for equal work; to rest and leisure; right to a standard of living sufficient for his health and well being (food, cloth ing, shelter, medical care, and social services); to education; to freely participate in the cultural life of the community; and to social and international order where rights can be realized. These rights are also in line with a person’s duties in the community. These rights are subject to limitations as determined by law and in line with the recognition of the rights of others and of ensuring morality, public order, and general welfare5. In effect, these rights are not absolute and they still have to be evaluated in terms of their impact on public order and morality. Universality of human rights Human rights, as discussed by some circles are said to be endowed to individuals by the mere reason of being human6. Rights are means by which members of society participate in the activities in... This essay has sought to present an academic understanding of international human rights as they come into conflict with the people’s culture. The premise that international human rights apply equally, despite cultural differences, is a premise which is clouded with much controversy, with different nations and cultures clashing with the ideal standards of the international community. The principle of non-interference and state sovereignty is being used as a defense for these nations who seemingly violate these international human rights. This report makes a conclusion that the practices set forth as human rights violations may not actually be considered as violations for peoples which have made these practices a part of their culture. Nevertheless, based on the mandates of the UN Charter, these are deemed violations of human rights. Based on the above discussion, there is a need to set forth universal human rights in order to prevent the violations of such rights which are unf airly justified under culture and traditions. Allowing said violations to remain uncorrected is a dangerous practice to carry out because these practices may further support the dictatorial and abusive regimes of governments. In effect, although there are inherent dangers which are expected with the implementation of standard human rights, the gains are very much beneficial to most cultures and to the citizens of the world. This paper stresses that modern international human rights law as was previously discussed was conceptualized as a response to the atrocities carried out during and prior to the Second World War.