Since 1948 almost 200 nations have reaffirmed this document (for a history of this document see for instance: http://www.unhcr.ch/teach/tchhr/tchhr.htm). This Declaration has also influenced countless constitutions and laws since its original introduction. 

Despite the importance of this document on a world scale many people are unaware of its existence. Less are familiar with the contents of the Declaration, and even less have thought critically about the document and its content.

Human Rights violations, as defined in the Declaration, are commonplace in every country of the world, at different levels: interpersonal, within institutions and communities, within laws and political programs, etc. If we strive to create a world in which human rights are respected then it is important that younger generations learn what human rights are, to think critically about them, how to recognize human rights violations, how rights relate to responsibilities, and how individuals can promote human rights in their own lives.

This module is loosely based on a module that has been used by various human rights organizations in the past.