Human rights—core freedoms and protections that affirm each person’s dignity—have become central to global peace and justice. Emerging after World War II and officially codified in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948, these rights sought to protect individuals from discrimination, oppression and violence. But today, these principles face serious challenges, particularly concerning escalating conflicts in regions like Palestine and Lebanon.
Growing public awareness of rights abuses in these regions has intensified calls to classify the atrocities as genocide. However, many Western governments have shown reluctance to address these violations directly, often obscuring the global values of fairness, equality, and respect that human rights were meant to uphold.
Key Sections
Section | Key Points |
History of Human Rights | Post-WWII led to the UDHR in 1948, the universality of rights for all people. |
Genocide Defined | UN Convention criteria for genocide—acts with intent to destroy a group in whole or in part. |
Violations in Palestine & Lebanon | Documented human rights abuses raise concern for potential genocide designation. |
Bias and Inaction in Western Responses | Lack of formal condemnation; use of bias to frame pro-Palestinian support as anti-Semitism. |
The Power of Lobby Groups | Unseen lobbying pressures shaping Western government responses. |
Divisive Language | Moving beyond terms like anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, broadening the scope of "discrimination". |
A Brief History: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Foundational Principles
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is a historic document adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. It outlines fundamental human rights that are universally protected, covering civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. It is a foundation for international human rights laws and standards, though it is not legally binding.
It emphasises universal principles like equality, freedom, and dignity.
Why was the UDHR Created?
Human rights evolved as a response to the horrors of the Holocaust and the atrocities of World War II. The UDHR, signed in 1948, outlined 30 articles (or points) championing universal human rights. This declaration established the principle of universality—the idea that all people are entitled to equal protection and dignity. Key treaties such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) have since reinforced these principles.
Yet, in many global conflicts, we are reminded of the challenges in safeguarding and upholding these principles. Today, the severe situation in Palestine, which has extended into Lebanon, raises fundamental questions about the integrity of human rights and the role of international bodies in upholding these values.
“In relation to Israel’s military operations in Gaza from 7 October, the Commission concludes that Israel has committed war crimes, crimes against humanity and violations of International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Law.” - United Nations Human Rights Council. (2024, May)
Violations in Palestine and Lebanon: Evidence of Genocide?
According to the 1948 Genocide Convention, genocide involves acts committed “with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group.” Indicators include:
Killing members of the group
Inflicting physical or mental harm
Creating life-threatening conditions for survival
Documented Israeli Defence Force actions in Palestine and Lebanon, including widespread deliberate targeting of civilians resulting in casualties and permanent physical and psychological impairment, the deliberate destruction of crucial civilian infrastructure, and restrictions on essential resources such as food, water and medicines, have led to calls from organisations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch to recognise these events as potential genocide. Renowned human rights lawyer Michael Ratner once argued, “The silence of the international community in the face of such violations only emboldens the perpetrators.”
“The silence of the international community in the face of such violations only emboldens the perpetrators.” - Michael Ratner
Growing International Awareness and the Role of Global Organisations
Global awareness of, and concern about, these atrocities is rising, with advocacy from entities including:
Amnesty International – condemning potential war crimes and urging investigations.
Human Rights Watch – documenting evidence and calling for immediate interventions.
United Nations – urging adherence to humanitarian laws.
International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) – highlighting the extent of human rights abuses.
Doctors Without Borders (MSF) – providing medical assistance in dire conditions and documenting the impact on civilians.
World Council of Churches – advocating for peaceful resolutions and accountability.
Palestinian Red Crescent Society – recording medical needs and casualties.
Yet, despite these concerns, Western government responses have been muted. Leaders actively avoid using terms like "genocide" or “ethnic cleansing,” opting instead for diplomatic phrasing that downplays the crisis. Where is the integrity of Western governments?
Bias and Inaction from Western Governments
A major barrier to addressing these violations is Western governments' biased narrative. These governments frequently frame the issue as a complex political conflict, which obscures the human rights dimensions. Supporters of Palestinian rights are sometimes labelled as anti-Semitic—a misrepresentation that fuels division and frustration rather than unity.
Recent events in Germany reflect this bias. After Jewish groups burned the Palestinian flag and chanted in support of the IDF, pro-Palestinian protesters' reactions were quickly met with new anti-Semitism laws. Yet, calls for universal protections against discrimination for all groups have not been as readily enforced. This double standard undermines the core tenet of equality in human rights and exacerbates division and injustice.
The Influence of Phantom Lobby Groups on Government Actions
Western government inaction is often shaped by lobby groups with extensive influence. These groups use political donations, media influence, and lobbying to shape foreign policy stances, frequently deterring criticism of Israeli actions. This influence compromises governments’ ability to uphold the UDHR’s principles impartially. These interests of a minority do not reflect the values or interests of Australians as a whole and threaten the integrity of our democracy.
Addressing the Language of Discrimination: A Call for Inclusive Unity
Terms like anti-Semitism and Islamophobia address specific prejudices, yet they risk fostering divisions.
Discrimination, racism and xenophobia are terms that can more broadly unify calls for justice, framing our opposition to prejudice in inclusive terms. This approach aligns with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and international treaties like the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD).
The Future of Human Rights and the Consequences of Inaction
Inaction in the face of such grave violations risks emboldening authoritarianism and racism worldwide. The rise of nationalist rhetoric from leaders like Donald Trump, who often invoke fear and division, is reminiscent of McCarthy-era tactics.
The McCarthy era, named after U.S. Senator Joseph McCarthy, refers to the period in the early 1950s marked by intense anti-communist sentiment and suspicion in the United States. McCarthy spearheaded aggressive investigations and hearings, accusing countless individuals in government, the arts, and various industries of communist sympathies or activities, often with little or no evidence. Tactics included public shaming, blacklisting, and guilt by association, which led to widespread fear and self-censorship. Careers were destroyed, lives were disrupted, and an atmosphere of paranoia and repression took hold, stifling political dissent and impacting free expression. This era left a lasting legacy on American civil liberties, highlighting the dangers of unsubstantiated accusations and the power of fear-driven political agendas.
Divisive ideologies risk undermining social trust, cohesion, and stability. We must commit to universal human rights, which requires courage. Together, through collective power, we can build a world rooted in respect, equality, and enduring peace.
Addressing the Crisis: An Urgent Appeal to the UN Security Council
The ongoing conflict undeniably threatens international peace and security, requiring decisive action from the global community. An appeal to the UN Security Council, put forth by the UN Human Rights Council’s Independent International Commission of Inquiry (COI) on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, calls the Council to take a firm stand under Chapter VII of the UN Charter. This chapter grants the authority to enforce measures necessary to restore peace, including imposing ceasefires and other steps to prevent further escalation (United Nations, n.d.). Specifically, the COI urges the council to:
Demand the Government of Israel to implement an immediate ceasefire, lift the siege on Gaza, ensure the flow of humanitarian aid, and halt the targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure.
Secure the unconditional release of hostages held in the region.
Furthermore, the COI emphasises the Palestinian people’s fundamental right to self-determination, a right the international community acknowledges as critical for lasting peace (United Nations, n.d.). Supporting this right not only honours a commitment to human dignity but also underscores the need for a balanced approach to addressing the root causes of the conflict.
Summary Table
Issue | Details |
Human Rights in Palestine | Extensive civilian casualties and displacement raising concerns of genocide. |
Key Organisations | Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, United Nations, MSF, and others. |
Western Government Response | Mixed; reluctance to classify events as genocide. Tendency to focus on relatively minor issues (such as flags displayed by a few at protest marches) rather than the ongoing spread and intensification of human suffering. |
Influence of Lobby Groups | Significant shaping of political narratives and international policy based on biased history, resulting in the rights of one group being considered paramount over others, the designation of criticism of the government of Israel with anti-Semitism. |
Supporting Young People’s Mental Health Amid Global Challenges with iflow Psychology
In these times of significant global unrest and shifting societal values, the lack of governmental integrity and action on critical human rights issues profoundly impacts young people.
At iflow Psychology, we are witnessing firsthand how these challenges affect the mental well-being of young individuals, who are increasingly struggling to trust in systems that are supposed to protect human dignity and equality. Many young people express disillusionment, anxiety, and hopelessness as they grapple with questions about humanity’s future.
Our psychologists at iflow Psychologyhttps://www.iflowpsychology.com.au/find-a-psychologist work to provide a safe, supportive space where young people can openly explore their concerns, build resilience, and renew their sense of agency and hope. By addressing these feelings of despair and equipping them with tools for positive mental health, we aim to empower young people to remain engaged and inspired, fostering a belief that their voices matter and that positive change is possible.
Together, by fostering an inclusive commitment to human rights, we can help promote a future where all people are protected and respected, fulfilling the UDHR’s significant promise of equality and justice for all.
References
United Nations Human Rights Council. (2024, May). Report of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and Israel. UN Human Rights Council. https://www.ohchr.org
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What defines genocide under international law?
According to the 1948 Convention, genocide includes acts intended to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group.
Who are the leading organisations advocating for Palestinian rights?
Key organisations include Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, the United Nations, and Doctors Without Borders.
How does the UDHR address discrimination?
The UDHR protects against discrimination based on race, religion, or nationality, upholding equality and dignity for all people.
Why is there resistance from some Western governments to address these rights abuses?
Some experts attribute this to minority lobby group influence, which unreasonably uses its economic and social power to shape policy and creates a reluctance to criticise specific state actions.
Thank you, this is an important antidote to the biased mainstream media, reminding us what has happened and how we need to let our government know that we wont allow complicity to go unchallenged or be rewarded.