Human rights and human rights education

Abstract

Education is must for all human beings whether it is value education, physical education, environmental education or human rights education. As human rights are basic to humanity and human beings are entitled by virtue of their status as human beings without consideration of nationality, religion, race, sex, class, caste and creed. While civil, political and social-economic rights are dependent on an individual's status as a citizen of a particular state but his human rights are not determined by this condition. Because these rights are concerned with humanity, with all humans, therefore, the scope of human rights education is extensive. In the age of globalization, fast urbanization and expansion of higher education, the relevance of human rights education is being felt. Human rights are a prerequisite for peace, development and democracy. India is one of the world’s oldest civilizations and the largest and most matured democracy. For the sake of democracy and sustainable development human rights education is essential in Indian society. Knowledge of human rights is the best defense against their violation. Learning about one’s rights builds respect for the rights of other and points the way to be more tolerant and peaceful societies.