On #HumanRightsDay 2020, we’ve decided to focus on the inspiring moments of an extremely difficult year. There were many bright spots, from the caretakers and essential workers globally persevering during this pandemic, to the protesters who were inspired to march by the murder of George Floyd. From the people in Lebanon who came together to help each other after a horrible, preventable explosion, to the brave peaceful protesters in Belarus demanding free and fair elections. But not every heartening story made the headlines, and many heroes are unsung. Today, among our inspiring stories, we hope you may find some you never even heard of.
People around the globe work every day to make the world a better, fairer, and more just place. Human Rights Watch’s Audrey Wabwire pays tribute to her sister, Vicky, a teacher and guidance counsellor in a small girls’ school in Kenya who is committed to helping girls reach their potential.
Vicky's and Audrey's stories >>
On Human Rights Day 2020, let’s celebrate a tremendous victory for children’s rights as Greece is ending the practice of detaining unaccompanied migrant children in jail cells.
Greece Commits to End Child Detention >>
Gambia’s Minister of Justice displayed moral courage and leadership in seeking justice both within his own country and for the Rohingya - a truly inspirational story.
Giving Gambia a Big Voice on Human Rights >>
Here is to the university students and young people in Belgium who reviewed Peace Prize nominees and voted this year to Stop Killer Robots!
Children Vote to Stop Killer Robots >>
The Yemeni activist Huda al-Sarari won a well-deserved top human rights award for her committed and courageous work in her home country.
Yemeni Activist Wins Prestigious Human Rights Award >>
There’s strength in numbers, and people with albinism from six continents formed a global alliance to better advocate for the rights and futures of everyone with albinism.
People with Albinism Form First Ever Global Alliance >>
In a landmark move, the International Court of Justice in The Hague ordered Myanmar to protect the embattled Rohingya Muslims.
Court orders Myanmar to protect Rohingya >>
Happy Human Rights Day to mothers in Afghanistan who, for the first time, will see their names on the birth certificates of their children.
Afghan Women Win Fight for Their Own Identity >>
This year Pope Francis called for the recognition of civil union laws that would legally protect same-sex couples for the first time - love is love, on Human Rights Day and every other day
Pope Francis Supports Same-Sex Civil Unions >>
This Human Rights Day we can also celebrate a global commitment to eradicating the worst forms of child labor.
Historic commitment to end child labor >>
As probation commissioner for New York City, Vincent Schiraldi’s helped thousands by taking on probation in the city’s criminal justice system.
Transforming probation in New York City >>
*A story that appeared in the original list was edited out after publications
