U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
December 10, 2008

Statement by Sean McCormack, Spokesman

International Human Rights Day

Today marks the 60th Anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a document that affirms the inherent rights of people everywhere and enshrines basic freedoms of thought, expression, peaceful assembly, religion, and association.

In observing International Human Rights Day and Week, we recognize the noble work of human rights defenders around the world who risk harassment, beatings, arrest and even death for seeking to secure the rights of their fellow citizens. We applaud the hard-won gains for human rights and democratic government that have been made in recent decades. We also recognize that in every region of the world, there are governments that respond to growing demands for fundamental freedoms and democratic rights by oppressing human rights and democracy activists, civil society organizations, journalists, and others who are peacefully advocating for them. As we mark the 60th anniversary, we recommit ourselves to supporting those who struggle for freedom from tyranny and fear and for the right to hold their government accountable.

The United States stands in solidarity with the brave men and women around the globe who work to defend human dignity and advance the cause of freedom.