“Human rights are about people. They are about you and your life: your needs and wants and fears; your hopes for the present and the future.” 

This quote is from United Nations Human Rights High Commissioner, Volker Türk, to mark this year’s Human Rights Day on 10 December. Born out of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, this day celebrates human rights achievements and calls for continuous progress in protecting the rights and freedoms of all people

In this conflicted world we need to consider people’s human rights more than ever, yet sadly this is not happening.

Under the theme “Our rights, our future, right now” this year’s campaign focuses on how human rights are a pathway to solutions, as they play a critical role as a preventative, protective and transformative force for good, particularly in times of crises. By establishing, recognising and adhering to a common set of values and principles that apply universally, human rights help to avoid violations, conflicts, and abuses before they happen.

I like to think we can aspire to this, but several weeks ago the United Nations released its annual assessment of global humanitarian needs.

It’s a grim document, but I urge you to read it.

The report, known as the Global Humanitarian Overview, surveys the dozens of man-made and natural disasters around which the UN has mounted a response over the current year. It also projects the crises expected to demand international attention in 2025. The report estimates that 305 million people across 32 countries and nine refugee-hosting regions will require humanitarian assistance in the coming year, with a staggering price tag of $47 billion.

Many of these crises are well-known to those who follow the news: Gaza, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine and Afghanistan. Many others have faded from the headlines but remain massive in scale, such as Yemen, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Burma.

What can you do? To feel less helpless my husband and I donate regularly to local Perth agencies helping refugees and asylum seekers like CARAD. Their A Place to Call Home Campaign provides vital support to individuals and families navigating the challenges of displacement and seeking safety. We also donate to Medecin Sans Frontieres, a global health agency working around the world in hot spots. I also write about the issues – reading everything I can from trusted sources so I can advocate with full knowledge.

So, remember use your vote and your voice when you can. There are local, national and international issues to champion.