Human Dignity and the Quality of Life

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is based on the Principle of dignity and justice for all. It opens with the words, “… the recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world…” In this charter, the member states of the United Nations have reaffirmed their faith in fundamental human rights, and in the dignity and worth of every human individual.

Human dignity is inherent in all members of the human family, and is the foundation of equal and inalienable rights. Thus, it is the firm and immovable backbone of all the freedoms to which every human being is entitled, without distinction, on the basis of origin, gender, race, color, age or physical condition, whatever the nationality, language, culture, religion, doctrine, sect, place of residence, social, material, or political status. Everyone is entitled to freedom of thought, expression of opinion, freedom of conscience, and religious belief and practice, including the freedom to change
one’s religion or belief. Everyone has the right to security of person, and all are equal before just laws, and are entitled, equally, without discrimination, to legal protection under the banner of equal citizenship. No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.

Everyone is entitled to a standard of living conducive to health and well-being for self and family, and to medical care and social services. Everyone, without distinction, is entitled to the right of work, to just and favorable employment conditions, to equal pay for equal work and to freedom from fear, oppression, persecution and scarcity. Everyone has the right to take part in the political process and to have equal access to the circles of law, authority, and an unbiased judiciary.

Where are our Middle Eastern societies vis-à-vis those rights?