Human Rights Lesson Plans and Resources
Welcome to this curated collection of preK-12 and higher education teaching resources, dedicated to the teaching and preservation of human rights. As we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), it’s more important than ever to understand and teach these fundamental principles that are at the core of our shared humanity.
Human rights are the basic rights and freedoms that belong to every person in the world, from birth until death. These rights are based on shared values like dignity, fairness, equality, respect and independence—for all human beings. In today’s interconnected world, where information and ideas flow freely across borders, understanding human rights is not just important, it is essential. It helps us navigate the complexities of our global society and equips us to address challenges such as inequality, injustice and discrimination.
This collection of human rights lesson plans and resources is designed to assist teachers in educating students about human rights in a way that is engaging, informative and age-appropriate. Whether you’re teaching young children about the concepts of fairness and respect or guiding older students through the complexities of international human rights laws, these resources offer a wide range of tools to support your efforts.
The 75th anniversary of the UDHR is a significant milestone. Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, the UDHR was the first global expression of rights to which all human beings are inherently entitled. This landmark document has since inspired the development of human rights laws and standards worldwide and has been a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for people fighting for justice and equality.
As educators, you have the power to shape the minds and attitudes of the next generation. By incorporating these resources into your teaching, you help students understand the importance of human rights, the history behind them and their relevance in today’s world. You will be providing them with the knowledge and skills they need to become informed, compassionate and active global citizens.
Together, we can embrace this opportunity to educate and inspire, and to carry forward the legacy of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights into the future.
