December 10 marks the International Day of Human Rights, a moment to reaffirm our commitment to fundamental freedoms that belong to every person. This year’s theme, "Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials", resonates with the undeniable reality of the global challenges. It is a powerful reminder that human rights are not abstract ideals reserved for grand declarations, but rather fundamental necessities that underpin our daily existence – the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the security we crave. For Cameroon, a nation navigating complex political landscapes and persistent human rights challenges, this theme is not just relevant but an urgent call to action for all.
The theme "Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials" often highlights the contrast between aspirations and realities in Cameroon. While the nation strives for progress in its political, economic and social life, many of its citizens face daily struggles for basic rights. The upcoming 2025 local and parliamentary elections are keenly watched for their ability to deliver on the promise of inclusive governance. The right to participate in one's own government, to have one's voice heard and respected, is an everyday essential for any functioning democracy. When this right is compromised, or when the mechanisms for its exercise are perceived as exclusive, the very fabric of community trust begins to wear out. Ensuring transparency, fairness, and genuine representation in these electoral processes is not merely a political undertaking, but a fundamental human right essential for the well-being of every Cameroonian.
“When the right to safety, dignity, and participation is denied, the foundations of peace and community cohesion begin to collapse.”
The devastating Anglophone Armed Conflict tragically underscores how the denial of everyday essential human rights can lead to widespread suffering. For the communities enduring the conflict in the Northwest and Southwest regions, basic rights and necessities like safety, freedom from fear, and access to essential services have been brutally stripped away. This theme, "Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials," brings attention to the daily injustices that civilians face, the right to life, which is restricted by violence; the right to physical integrity, which is infringed by assaults and mistreatment; the right to security, which is destroyed by fear and displacement; and the right to a dignified life, which is compromised by the devastation of infrastructure and means of subsistence.
The interconnectedness of human rights is undeniable. The right to education is an everyday essential for our children's futures. The right to healthcare is crucial for the well-being of our families. The right to a fair trial is vital for justice. The right to express oneself freely, without fear of reprisal, is the bedrock of a vibrant society. In Cameroon, ensuring these rights are not just on paper but actively realized in the daily lives of all citizens is the paramount challenge. It requires constant vigilance, unwavering advocacy, and a collective commitment from government, civil society, and every individual.
This International Human Rights Day, let us move beyond abstract pronouncements and recognize the tangible impact of human rights on our daily lives. For Cameroon, this means relentlessly pursuing peace, fostering inclusive governance, and holding accountable those who perpetrate violations. Let us commit to building a Cameroon where human rights are not a distant ideal, but the very foundation of our everyday lives.
