The Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action is a landmark human rights document adopted by the United Nations World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna, Austria, on June 25, 1993. It sets out the principles and guidelines for the promotion and protection of human rights globally.
The declaration reaffirms the importance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and international human rights instruments and recognizes the universality, indivisibility, and interdependence of human rights. It emphasizes that human rights should be regarded as a priority in all policies and that they should be promoted and protected both nationally and internationally.
The Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action addresses various human rights issues, including civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. It acknowledges the importance of democracy, rule of law, and respect for diversity and non-discrimination. It also highlights the rights of vulnerable groups, such as women, children, indigenous peoples, migrants, and persons with disabilities.
The document underscores the importance of human rights education, training, and public awareness as essential tools for the promotion of human rights. It recognizes the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society in advancing human rights and encourages their active participation in human rights processes.
Furthermore, the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action stresses the importance of international cooperation in promoting and protecting human rights. It calls for increased dialogue, understanding, and cooperation between countries to address human rights violations and to strengthen human rights mechanisms at the international level.
Since its adoption, the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action has served as a guiding framework for human rights advocacy and action globally. It has influenced the work of various human rights bodies, including the United Nations Human Rights Council, and has been instrumental in shaping the human rights agenda worldwide.