Human rights are the basic rights and freedoms that all human beings are entitled to. This includes the right to life and liberty, the right to equal protection under the law, freedom of expression, the right to education, and the right to work and receive an equitable wage.
The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights is a treaty adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1966 and ratified by 158 states. It is the main international document that enshrines civil and political rights and freedoms, like freedom of speech, the right to a fair trial, freedom of assembly and association, and many more. All states that have ratified the treaty are obligated to respect and ensure the rights of individuals within their jurisdiction.
Modern Examples of Human Rights Violations
Human rights violations continue to take place in numerous countries around the world-from threats to the right to freedom of assembly and expression, to the use of torture, to the exploitation of labor. This is especially true in the world of business, where multinational companies often take advantage of vulnerable populations. Modern examples of these violations range from the exploitation of workers in factory settings, to the disregard of safety protocols that can result in injury or death, to the violation of labor standards.
The Impact of Human Rights on Business Professional
It is important for business professionals to be aware of human rights, because companies are often held responsible for respecting and protecting the rights of those affected by their operations and products. Business professionals need to be aware of human rights standards and potential violations, in order to prevent them from occurring and to ensure their business practices are in accordance with international laws. Furthermore, by understanding and respecting human rights, business professionals can help to ensure that human dignity and fundamental rights are respected all over the world.