ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on key characteristics of modern international human rights. All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood. The non-discrimination clauses common to most instruments make the principle of non-discrimination abundantly clear. The United Nations, since inception, elected to focus on universal human rights founded on respect for innate human dignity. One of the main challenges to the universality of contemporary human rights lies with cultural pluralism. While the significance of national and regional particularities and various historical, cultural and religious backgrounds must be borne in mind, it is the duty of States, regardless of their political, economic and cultural systems, to promote and protect all human rights and fundamental freedoms. Policies for the inclusion and participation of all citizens are guarantees of social cohesion, the vitality of civil society and peace.
