Oral

2008 marks the 60th anniversary of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Developed in the aftermath of World War II, the UDHR spells out the basic rights and fundamental freedoms that form the foundation for the contemporary understanding of human rights including Article 25 on the right to health. Also included in the UDHR are the additional principles of non-discrimination and dignity which are pertinent to public health. This session will serve as a commemoration of the anniversary of the UDHR by celebrating its past, present and future. An examination of the historical development of human rights in general and the right to health more specifically will be undertaken. Projections for the right to health and future challenges faced by public health professionals related to human rights issues will also be presented.

Session Objectives: By the end of the session participants will be able to: Describe the fundamental elements of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; Understand the evolution of the right to health; and Project future challenges for public health professionals working on social justice and human rights related issues.

CE Credits: CME, Health Education (CHES), Nursing