A world without rights is a jail and a place of torment for the helpless and the voiceless.
There cannot be enduring peace, stability, or safety. No opportunity for expression, equality, or
democracy. There is no hope for an internet that prioritizes people over profit, no solution to the
digital divide, and no online safety. This is a world without important human rights.
Each nation has its own set of fundamental rights, but how unfair is it that, in some, if not
most, instances, those who are wronged are frequently ignored or silenced when it involves
higher-ups, when justice is acquired through money, and when there is no outcry from the
public?
Unjustness can be addressed in a number of effective ways, including through public
calls to action. Reaching out to the government through nonviolent protests, petitions, and
personal or online appeals for reform can have an impact. Another option is to act as a fair
citizen who does not ignore anyone who appears to be being denied their human rights,
particularly those who were denied such rights due to prejudices or because of what they did.
Always keep in mind that human rights are a requirement, not a privilege; they are intended to
allow everyone to live as it should be, without having to worry about being able to blink, sleep,
or even exist. In this situation, we shouldn't be the oppressors nor the enablers.
Over the years, our country has experienced several human rights violations. Just
because something happens regularly shouldn't be taken as normal. As citizens, it is our duty to
take action against the violation of human rights by the government, such as extrajudicial
killings, before it is our turn to end up in a body bag.
Normal people like us are capable of violating human rights as well. It is our duty to
safeguard everyone and be conscious of our behavior. It covers not only serious crimes like
extrajudicial killings, harassment, and unlawful detentions but also prejudice, unjust treatment,
and seemingly small things that are felt to be obstructing one's life and dignity. If we choose to
remain silent and accept the unfair treatment as our ancestors endured it before, oppression will
come again. There may be days in our nation when it may seem all hope is lost, but as young
Filipinos, we must utilize democracy to our advantage in preserving our human rights.