A human rights scholar and advocate, Dr. Nneamaka Mariah Ilodigwe has called for renewed commitment to justice, equality, and the protection of vulnerable groups as the global community marks the 2025 International Human Rights Day.
In a statement to commemorate the event, Dr. Ilodigwe reflected on the historic adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) on December 10, 1948, describing it as “a moral compass for humanity” that affirms the fundamental truth that all people are born free and equal in dignity and rights.
Dr. Ilodigwe , who is both a scholar and practitioner of human rights, noted that despite decades of progress, many individuals, especially women, children, and marginalized communities continue to face discrimination, violence, and exclusion. She stressed that human rights are not abstract principles but everyday entitlements that safeguard dignity and opportunity.
“Human rights are the right of a girl to inherit property without discrimination, the right of a child to education instead of exploitation, and the right of every person to live free from fear,” she said. “These are lived realities, not academic theories.”
She emphasized that legal frameworks alone do not guarantee justice, pointing out that cultural practices, entrenched social norms, and weak institutions continue to undermine rights in many developing societies.
According to her, discriminatory customs remain major barriers to achieving the freedoms promised under international conventions.
Dr. Ilodigwe used the occasion to challenge governments to go beyond symbolic commitments and ensure that human rights laws translate into real protection for citizens. She urged state institutions to strengthen access to justice, enforce accountability, and dismantle systemic inequalities that silence marginalized voices.
She further called on civil society organisations, religious institutions, traditional authorities, and families to recognise their role in nurturing a culture of respect for human dignity.
“Human rights begin at home,” she stated. “Culture should evolve to protect human dignity, not destroy it.”
The scholar reminded all stakeholders that human rights are universal, indivisible, and interdependent, adding that no society can claim true development while selectively respecting rights.
Reaffirming her personal commitment as a human rights activist and academic, Dr. Ilodigwe pledged to continue advocating for justice, amplifying unheard voices, and pushing for reforms that promote fairness and inclusion.
“Let us educate, advocate, protect, and uphold human dignity—everywhere and for everyone,” she concluded, urging collective action and solidarity.
