Peacebuilding &conflict transformation A ... - Peaceworkafrica

or any other differentiating characteristic. They are based on the idea that all humanbeings have an ‘inherent dignity’ that assures human beings certain fundamentalrights and freedom that apply at all times in all situations and contexts. They arerelated to the principles of equality, security, liberty and integrity. Some basic humanrights and fundamental freedoms for all human beings are:The right to:▶ life, liberty, and personal safety▶ an adequate standard of living (including food, shelter, waterand medical care)▶ education▶ freely participate in the cultural life of the community▶ freedom of peaceful assembly and association▶ freedom of movement▶ marry and to form a family▶ own property▶ equal access to public services▶ work, to free choice of employment, to just conditions of work▶ not be subjected to slavery, torture, cruel, inhuman or degradingtreatment▶ be recognized as a person before the law, presumed innocentuntil proven guilty▶ not be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile▶ freedom of opinion and expression; and of thought, conscience,and religion▶ take part in the government of one’s countryHuman rights are not sacred or legal principles or a gift from caring governments.They are directly related to the basic necessities of all human beings. For example▶ ‘the right to freely participate in the cultural life of the community’relates to needs of identity, recognition, participation, respect,community;▶ ‘the right to an adequate standard of living’ relates to needs of food,water, shelter, freedom from bodily harm, health…▶ ‘the right to life’ covers all needs.114 I I I . C O N F L I C T