Human rights are the foundation of peaceful societies, yet they are under attack in many countries globally, according to the deputy UN human rights chief, Andrew Gilmour.

The “danger, intimidation and reprisals faced by courageous human rights defenders” are a visible manifestation of this backlash, he stressed.

This Human Rights Day, 10 December, also marks the beginning of a year-long celebration to kick off the 70^th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which establishes the equality and dignity of every person.

Mr. Gilmour spoke to Liz Scaffidi about the Declaration’s relevance in today’s world.

Duration: 4’47”