By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a powerful call for global solidarity as the world marks the 2025 Human Rights Day, warning that freedoms are shrinking and violations are rising across continents.
In his message delivered on Wednesday, Guterres reflected on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted nearly 80 years ago, describing it as a “philosophical and political breakthrough” and the foundation of the modern international order.
But the UN chief lamented a rapid decline in civic space, growing abuses, and a “callous indifference to human suffering,” stressing that civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights remain “inalienable, indivisible and interdependent.”
Guterres said the United Nations continues to work with governments and civil society to uphold basic rights by providing food and shelter, supporting education and elections, clearing landmines, protecting the environment, empowering women, and promoting peace.
However, he warned that these efforts cannot succeed without collective action.
“This work depends on all people, everywhere, taking a stand. When we protect the most vulnerable, when we refuse to look away, we keep human rights alive,” he said.
Calling for renewed commitment, the Secretary-General stressed that rights must never be sacrificed for profit or political power.
He urged nations and individuals alike to unite in defending human dignity and freedom: “Let us protect the institutions that speak up for us—for the dignity and freedom of all.”
