Concept Paper in

The Contemporary World

(Ged 104)
BSIT-1101
Submitted to:
Prof. Meynard Marasigan
Submitted by:
Atienza, Lheoricke Miguel Z.
Causapin, Nikko Selwyn M.
Diño, John Laurence A.
Magyaya, Charlie C.
Malata, Ronel Lance S.
Mendoza, Vince A.
Ramsey, Paolo Emmanuel
Salvio, Joemar V.
Soriano, Jerard Paul V.
Vasquez, John Ley Lucky D.
 Human Rights and Social Justice
Batangas State University-TNEU ARASOF NASUGBU

I. INTRODUCTION

Human rights and social justice are interconnected concepts that underpin a

just and equitable society. Understanding their definitions and significance is crucial

for fostering a world where every individual's inherent dignity and worth are

respected and protected.

Human rights are essential rights and liberties that every person in the world

has from birth to death. They apply to everyone, regardless of nationality, location,

gender, national or ethnic origin, color, religion, language, or any other status (United

Nations, 1948). Human rights are universal, indivisible, and indestructible.

The United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of

Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948, outlining a comprehensive range of human rights,

including civil, cultural, economic, political, and social rights. These rights include the

right to life, liberty, and security, freedom from torture and discrimination, freedom of

expression and assembly, the right to an adequate level of living, and the right to an

appropriate standard of living (United Nations, 1948).

The equitable and just allocation of resources, opportunities, and privileges

within a community is known as social justice. According to Young (2012), it means

making sure that everyone has access to the needs for survival and well-being as
well as the chance to realize their own potential. Addressing systemic injustices and

imbalances that prevent people and groups from thriving and reaching equality is

included in the concept of social justice.

Social justice and human rights are closely intertwined. Human rights create

essential principles that safeguard individuals from harm and advance their well-

being, thereby serving as a framework for social justice. By fostering a community in

which everyone is able to fully enjoy their human rights, social justice thereby

achieves these rights (Song, 2017).

II. HISTORICAL CONTEXT

There have been many victories and disappointments throughout the long and

difficult road toward social justice and human rights. Ever since the beginning of

human history, the fight for justice and equality has persisted in democracies both

old and new. Social justice and human rights were frequently linked with intellectual

and theological ideas in history. For example, the idea of "dikaiosynē" in ancient

Greece stressed justice and fairness, whereas the idea of "ius naturale" in ancient

Rome referred to a natural rule that was applicable to all people. The foundation for

the development of human rights principles was established by these early concepts.

The 1215 signing of the Magna Carta is regarded as a turning point in the

development of human rights. It established the rule of law, the right to a fair trial,
and protection from arbitrary imprisonment as fundamental liberties and rights for

English citizens.

The eighteenth-century Enlightenment saw a rise in political and philosophical

ideas that developed the ideas of social justice and human rights. Intellectuals such

as John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Thomas Paine highlighted that every

person has the inherent right to life, liberty, and property. These concepts gave way

to revolutions and movements that questioned the established social structure and

called for greater equality. Adopted in 1776, the American Declaration of

Independence asserted that "all men are created equal" and that they possess

certain inalienable rights. Movements aiming to end slavery, increase political rights,

and advance social justice have found great inspiration in this declaration.

Following two catastrophic world wars in the 20th century, the United Nations

was founded and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was signed

into law in 1948. All people's fundamental rights and freedoms have been

documented in the UDHR, an important document in the history of human rights,

regardless of their gender, race, nationality, religion, or any other status. Since then,

almost all nations have signed on to the UDHR, which has been the basis for a

number of international human rights treaties and conventions. Numerous national

constitutions and laws that support social justice and human rights have also been

influenced by the declaration.

 The fight for social justice and human rights is still ongoing today, despite

tremendous advancements. Poverty, inequality, and discrimination are still

widespread issues, and many people and groups still experience fundamental rights

violations.

Globally, historical movements have been key in advancing social justice and

human rights. These movements have disrupted the status quo and significantly

altered the political, social, and legal domains because of a shared desire for justice

and equality. The civil rights movement opposed racial discrimination; the labor

movement pushed for improved working conditions; the environmental movement

brought attention to the effects of human activity on the environment; and the

abolitionist movement battled against slavery.

Along with changing laws and policies, these movements have also changed

social norms and perspectives on social justice and human rights. They act as

powerful reminders of the ability of people working together to confront injustice and

effect constructive change.

III. Theoretical Framework

1. Natural Rights Theory (Liberalism)

 The Natural Rights Theory, part of liberalism, says people have basic rights like

life, freedom, and property because of their human nature, not just because of laws.

This idea goes back to ancient Greek thinkers like Aristotle. Over time, it developed,

and during the Middle Ages, it became more modern. According to this theory,

human rights are natural and cannot be taken away by any government or person.

Liberals think defending individual rights is crucial for a fair society where everyone

gets equal protection under the law.

2. Utilitarianism Theory

Utilitarianism is an ethical idea that looks at outcomes to decide what's right or

wrong. It says the best choice is the one that brings the best to the most people. This

way of thinking is often used in business to weigh costs and benefits. However, it

struggles with values like justice and individual rights. For example, it might suggest

sacrificing one person to save more lives. Even though it's a logical approach, it has

limits. Utilitarianism supports human rights because they generally make society

better.

3. Marxism Theory

Marxism, by Karl Marx, talks about how the capitalist system is unfair to most

workers. Marx thought this would lead to a conflict between workers and employers,

eventually causing a revolution for collective ownership. According to Marxism,

human rights come from the capitalist system and can only happen fully in a

classless society. Marxists see human rights as tools of the ruling class, and true

justice means getting rid of class divisions.

4. Feminist Theory

Feminist theory has different ideas pushing against traditional male-dominated

systems. It calls for equal rights, justice, and fairness. Some feminists focus on

social, political, and legal constraints, while others want total freedom for women.

The different waves of feminism dealt with suffrage, equal access, and global

equality, impacting various areas and disciplines.

5. Postcolonialism Theory

Postcolonial theory looks at literature from former or current colonies, focusing

on resistance and otherness. It examines how writers from colonized nations

express their cultural identities. Postcolonial theory challenges a Eurocentric view of

human rights, saying that Western ideas might not fully represent the realities of

those in the Global South. It shows the complexity of colonial stories and their impact

on cultural identities.

Key Milestones and Developments in Human Rights and Social Justice

 Successes and failures are part of the continuous struggle for social justice and

human rights, which is influenced by historical movements, judicial systems, and

powerful people. This journey underwent a major sea change when the Universal

Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was adopted by the UN General Assembly in

1948. Supporting the global human rights consensus, the UDHR serves as a

cornerstone by defending each person's fundamental rights and freedoms and laying

the groundwork for future human rights treaties and conventions (United Nations,

1948).

During the 1950s and 1960s, the Civil Rights Movement in the United States

had a tremendous influence. The civil rights movement scored significant legislative

successes, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965,

through nonviolent marches and judicial challenges. These accomplishments are

significant landmarks in the continuous quest of racial equality and justice (Library of

Congress, 2023; National Museum of African American History & Culture, 2023).

Similarly, the women's rights movement has progressed over decades, obtaining

voting rights and recognizing women's rights as fundamental human rights. This

movement's ongoing efforts address a variety of concerns, including economic

rights, political representation, and the abolition of prejudice and violence (United

Nations, 2020; Women's History Month, 2023).

The global impact of the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa, fueled by

international solidarity, is of great importance. Activism, boycotts, and international

pressure played crucial roles in securing the release of Nelson Mandela from prison,
leading to his historic election as South Africa's first black president in 1994.

Mandela's leadership and the movement's unwavering commitment to justice

continue to inspire oppressed communities worldwide (Nelson Mandela Foundation,

2023; United Nations, 2023). Another significant development is the establishment of

the International Criminal Court (ICC) in 2002, representing a crucial step in holding

individuals accountable for serious international crimes. The ICC's jurisdiction,

covering individuals accused of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity,

underscores its pivotal role in upholding international human rights law and seeking

justice for victims of atrocity crimes (International Criminal Court, 2023; Human

Rights Watch, 2023).

IV. CONTEMPORARY ISSUES

The fight for social justice and human rights faces ongoing obstacles on all

fronts—political, economic, social, and cultural—despite recent progress. A

comprehensive approach is required, requiring political leaders to be committed,

legal reforms, strengthened institutions, educational programs, and active

participation from individuals and civil society.

According to the World Bank (2023), global disparities—which include problems

like poverty, discrimination, and unequal access to healthcare and education—are

the foundation of cycles of disadvantage and obstruct the realization of social justice
and human rights. This acknowledgement highlights the interrelated issues that must

be resolved in order to end these cycles and create a more just world community. In

addition, Amnesty International's 2023 report emphasizes the damaging effects of a

deficient legal system, corruption, and a dearth of accountability measures. These

problems are so common that they allow human rights abuses to continue

unpunished, which undermines public confidence in institutions and highlights how

crucial legal and governance frameworks are to protecting human rights.

UNHCR (2023) report, highlights the intricate nature of global challenges,

noting that armed conflicts, civil unrest, and political instability are major contributors

to human rights violations and displacement. This changing situation makes already-

existing disparities worse and puts significant obstacles in the way of the defense of

human rights. It emphasizes how urgently the core causes of these conflicts must be

addressed. Furthermore, a global resurgence of authoritarian and populist

movements is highlighted by Freedom House's 2023 findings, directly endangering

democratic values and human rights. These movements highlight the vital need for

strong defense mechanisms to fend off the erosion of democratic values by actively

suppressing dissent and undermining judicial independence.

Within the sphere of technological advancements, Human Rights Watch (2023)

report cautions about ethical issues related to data privacy, surveillance, and

algorithmic bias. Despite the potential for positive change offered by rapid progress,

the inappropriate use of technology has the potential to violate individual rights,

sustain discrimination, and weaken democratic processes. Additionally, the

repercussions of climate change and environmental degradation, highlighted by the

IPCC in 2022, have a disproportionately adverse impact on marginalized

communities, exacerbating pre-existing issues such as poverty, displacement, and

resource scarcity. This emphasizes the interconnection between environmental

concerns and human rights, necessitating comprehensive approaches to tackle

these linked challenges.

Public empowerment and awareness play in fostering a culture of respect for

human dignity (UNESCO, 2023). It acknowledges that raising public awareness and

educating people are crucial to creating a society that is more just and equal. In

2023, OHCHR highlights that addressing global human rights concerns calls for

robust international collaboration, group efforts, and the fortification of international

human rights frameworks, which includes promoting communication and aiding civil

society organizations.

A comprehensive approach that incorporates political commitment, legal

reforms, institutional strengthening, education, and active participation from

individuals and civil society is imperative in addressing these diverse challenges.

Together, we can create a world in which social justice is upheld, human rights are

constantly upheld, and everyone can prosper.

V. METHODOLOGY

Ensuring fairness in society and respecting human rights demands a

comprehensive strategy that includes education, advocacy, empowerment, and

collaboration. Below are key strategies for promoting these fundamental principles:

Educational Initiatives: Spreading awareness about societal inequalities and

human rights is vital for fostering understanding and driving change. This involves

organizing seminars, educational programs, and awareness campaigns to share

information and encourage critical thinking (Amnesty International, 2023).

Advocacy and Lobbying: Active involvement in advocacy and lobbying is

essential to influence policymakers and shape legislation that upholds social justice

and human rights. This includes engaging with government officials, participating in

public hearings, and rallying support for policies aligned with human rights principles

(Human Rights Watch, 2023).

Community Empowerment: Strengthening marginalized communities to

advocate for their rights is foundational for achieving social justice. This can be
achieved by supporting community-based initiatives, providing access to resources

and education, and fostering leadership development within marginalized groups.

Media Participation: Leveraging media platforms to share stories, raise

awareness, and challenge stereotypes is a potent tool for advancing social justice.

This involves interacting with media outlets, creating and disseminating human

rights-focused content, and advocating for fair and inclusive media representation.

Legal Assistance: Offering legal aid and support to individuals whose human

rights have been violated is crucial for ensuring access to justice. This includes

backing legal aid clinics, providing pro bono legal services, and advocating for legal

reforms that safeguard human rights.

Corporate Responsibility: Promoting ethical business practices, upholding

human rights principles, and engaging in constructive social initiatives are essential

for ensuring corporations contribute positively to society. This encompasses

advocating for corporate social responsibility initiatives, monitoring corporate

behavior, and holding companies accountable for human rights violations (United

Nations Global Compact, 2023).

Political Engagement: Encouraging political participation and civic

engagement is vital for promoting social justice and holding governments

accountable. This includes supporting voter registration drives, educating the public
about their political rights, and advocating for inclusive and participatory political

processes (International Foundation for Electoral Systems, 2023).

Cultural Awareness: Cultivating cultural understanding, tolerance, and

appreciation is crucial for dismantling prejudice and promoting social cohesion. This

involves promoting intercultural dialogue, organizing cultural exchange programs,

and challenging cultural stereotypes.

Social Initiatives: Developing and implementing social programs that address

discrimination, poverty, and inequality are essential for creating a more just and

equitable society. This includes supporting programs that provide access to

education, healthcare, and employment opportunities for marginalized groups.

International Collaboration: Participating in international efforts and

collaborating with international organizations is crucial for addressing systemic

human rights challenges that extend beyond national borders. This includes

involvement in international human rights forums, supporting multilateral initiatives,

and advocating for the implementation of international human rights conventions.

According to Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), governments have

a crucial responsibility in safeguarding human rights. They achieve this by creating

laws that protect basic freedoms, ensuring everyone receives fair treatment under

the law, and establishing unbiased and independent judicial systems. Civil society
organizations play a complementary role by advocating for human rights, spreading

awareness about violations, and holding governments accountable. As individuals,

who possess rights, there's a moral obligation to actively support advocacy initiatives

and stay vigilant in protecting one's rights and those of others.

Human rights and social justice progress is based on activism, advocacy, and

education. These interconnected elements stimulate group action toward a more just

and equitable world, give people the knowledge they need to demand change, and

amplify their voices. By taking part in these activities, people and communities can

significantly contribute to the creation of a society that is more equitable and

compassionate for all.

VI. CONCLUSION

The connection between human rights and social justice is vital for creating a

fair and equal society. From ancient ideas like "dikaiosynē" to important moments

such as the Magna Carta in 1215 and the Enlightenment era's emphasis on

individual rights, the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)

in 1948 marked a significant milestone. Influenced by centuries of philosophical

development, the UDHR has become a guiding force for social justice movements.

Various theories, like Natural Rights, Utilitarianism, Marxism, Feminism, and

Postcolonialism, offer different perspectives on how human rights and social justice

interact, enriching our understanding of this complex relationship. Historical

successes, such as the Civil Rights Movement and ongoing women's rights efforts,

highlight triumphs in the pursuit of justice. Yet, contemporary challenges, like global
disparities, weak legal systems, armed conflicts, and the rise of authoritarian

movements, call for comprehensive solutions. Addressing these issues requires a

diverse approach involving education, advocacy, community empowerment, media

participation, legal support, corporate responsibility, political engagement, cultural

awareness, and international collaboration. The commitment of governments, civil

society, and individuals is crucial for consistently upholding human rights and social

justice in society.

This call to action outlines a comprehensive strategy for promoting human

rights and social justice, emphasizing education, advocacy, empowerment, and

collaboration. Education initiatives involve spreading awareness through seminars,

social media, and educational content, supporting organizations focused on human

rights education. Advocacy and lobbying play a crucial role in influencing

policymakers and shaping legislation aligned with human rights principles, urging

citizens to engage with elected officials and participate in protests. Community

empowerment emphasizes supporting marginalized groups through initiatives,

volunteering, and donations. Media participation encourages leveraging platforms to

challenge stereotypes and advocate for fair representation. Legal assistance focuses

on providing aid to those whose rights are violated, involving pro bono work and

supporting legal aid organizations. Corporate responsibility calls for ethical business

practices, boycotting violative companies, and supporting accountability efforts.

Political engagement urges civic participation, voting, and advocacy for inclusive

policies. Cultural awareness promotes understanding, tolerance, and challenging

stereotypes. Social initiatives address discrimination and inequality through

volunteering, donations, and policy advocacy. International collaboration emphasizes

participating in global efforts, supporting organizations, and advocating for

international human rights initiatives. In conclusion, the call emphasizes everyone's

role in creating positive change at the community and global levels.

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