human rights

American  

[hyoo-muhn rahyts, yoo‑] / ˈhyu mən ˈraɪts, ˈyu‑ /

plural noun

1. fundamental rights, especially those believed to belong to an individual and in whose exercise a government may not interfere, as the rights to speak, associate, work, etc.

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human rights British  

plural noun

1. the rights of individuals to liberty, justice, etc

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human rights Cultural  

1. Freedom from arbitrary interference or restriction by governments. The term encompasses largely the same rights called civil liberties or civil rights but often suggests rights that have not been recognized.

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Political leaders in the United States often use the expression when speaking of rights violated by other nations.

Etymology

Origin of human rights

First recorded in 1785–95

Example Sentences

"The continued attacks by all parties on civilian objects must stop," the UN human rights chief Volker Türk said last week.

From BBC

But human rights advocates say Venezuelan authorities have been slow to release detainees.

From The Wall Street Journal

Pahlavi and Ebadi, the human rights activist, tried to create a broad alliance after the women’s rights protests in 2022 but it fell apart over their personal disputes.

From The Wall Street Journal

The law seeks to counter companies offloading responsibility onto subcontractors by requiring them to identify and prevent any risks toward human rights as well as the environment throughout their production chain, including overseas.

From Barron's

Formed in the 1970s, U2 became one of the world's most prominent rock bands through hits like "With or Without You" and their vocal human rights campaigning.

From Barron's

Related Words

• civil rights