"The declaration has transcended its origins by becoming a universal reference" - Jack Donelly
The UDHR and its over 70 human rights are still being used till this day, but not all countries are enforcing it. The UDHR is not very effective today as there are still wars. These wars are still happening even when the UDHR is still valid because there ARE still some loopholes in the document.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) has significantly altered the global landscape by establishing a common set of fundamental rights for all individuals, regardless of their background, which has inspired the development of laws and policies protecting individuals, communities, and nations from abuses, leading to greater awareness and advocacy for human rights issues, particularly for marginalized groups like women, children, and people with disabilities; although challenges remain, the UDHR serves as a crucial benchmark for evaluating human rights practices worldwide and empowers individuals to demand their rights be respected by governments and institutions.
The UDHR recognizes human rights as inherent to every individual, ensuring protection and dignity. At the same time, it is a responsibility for governments, organizations, and individuals to uphold and protect these rights. Each person has a role in advocating for justice, equality, and freedom to ensure these principles are upheld globally.
The complex interaction of progress and sustainable challenges reminds global citizens of the double role of the UDHR as a master document and a critical discourse in the evolving topic of human rights. Today, the Declaration remains a living document. It is the most translated document in the world.