n May 2001, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) awarded the University of Connecticut the first UNESCO Chair in Human Rights in the United States of America. At the time the Chair joined a network of 52 UNESCO chairs around the world, committed to promoting human rights, peace, democracy, and tolerance.

The UNESCO Chair in Comparative Human Rights at the University of Connecticut is guided by the theme of a common humanity and is informed by the principles of reciprocal learning and respect. The aim is to bridge the gap between ideals and theories of human rights practices, to accomplish positive change in human relations.

The concept of comparative human rights is born from the recognition of two fundamental historical facts: the first is that no people, region, or religion in the world has ever possessed a monopoly of virtues or vices. The second is that every society has experienced in varying degrees violations of human rights and has consequently designed some mechanisms to guard against such violations.

In order to develop effective and balanced approaches to human rights, we need not only to appreciate the different histories and philosophies of human rights struggles but also to learn from other people’s experiences. Reciprocal learning and exchange of information about strategies to advance the cause of human rights have become an imperative, especially in the global context in which we live.

A word about our logo, which bears the faces of youngsters in each quadrant of the globe: These young people are of different ages, skin colors, and facial features, but each holds great promise. The logo is intended to convey the simple but profound reality that young people are our future: they will grow into adults who either respect or reject the fundamental rights of their fellow human beings. There is nothing more meaningful for the future of human rights than to provide young people with an education that emphasizes the common humanity of all people, regardless of nationality, social background, religion, skin color, or gender.

Amii Omara-Otunnu
UNESCO Chair in Comparative Human Rights
University of Connecticut

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