Human Rights Day is celebrated on December 10 every year to raise awareness of human rights issues. 2018 marks the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The basic principle of the day is that we need to stand for our own rights and those of others. The theme for Human Rights Day 2018 is 'Stand Up For Human Rights'.

In December 1948, UNESCO was the first United Nations agency who gave utmost importance to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and spread it through various mediums. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted in 1948 of which the principles stand relevant today. Human Rights Watch Reports on Extensive Sexual Abuse of Women In North Korea.

Meanwhile, Twitterati has been tweeting about Human Rights Day pledging to protect and stand for the rights of fellow humans. Tweeples including Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan were among politicians to talk about the day on Twitter. India Named in UN’s Shameful List of 38 Countries for Harassment of Human Rights Activists: Reports.

Check out UN Human Rights' tweet:

Here are some of the tweets:

Talking about the day, Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO said, "Once again in our time, human rights are under threat. Across the world, we see how easily they can be swept aside by dehumanising stereotypes and the rise of intolerant discourse.

He added, "Conflict, violent extremism and natural disasters can cause chaos, undermining the rights of the most vulnerable in society. Emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, also must be developed with full respect for human rights."

United Nations' Secretary general António Guterres' message on Human Rights Day:

Watch the video below:

Azoulay further said, "We must remain ever vigilant that the progress made in the past 70 years is maintained, and UNESCO will continue to play its role being the leading international laboratory of ideas to tackle these challenges."

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 10, 2018 09:39 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).