Why Human Rights Commissions need a new name and focus

While human rights are essential, they come with corresponding responsibilities to our fellow citizens

Human Rights Commissions play a crucial role in upholding the dignity and freedoms of individuals by ensuring that human rights are protected and promoted. However, the name “Human Rights Commission” inherently focuses on one side of the equation – rights – while often neglecting the equally important concept of responsibilities. Renaming these commissions as “Rights and Responsibilities Commissions” would more accurately reflect the balance needed in a functioning and equitable society.

Rights, while fundamental, do not exist in a vacuum. They are interdependent with responsibilities. For instance, the right to freedom of expression carries the responsibility not to harm others through hate speech. The right to peaceful assembly implies a responsibility to ensure that demonstrations are conducted lawfully and respectfully. Even the right to education comes with a responsibility to engage and contribute to the learning environment.

By explicitly incorporating “responsibilities” into the name, these commissions would send a powerful message: rights are not entitlements without accountability. This shift would encourage a more comprehensive approach to human rights issues, recognizing that individual freedoms are tied to social duties. It would also promote a cultural understanding that for every right exercised, there is a corresponding responsibility to the community, other individuals, and society at large.

Moreover, the renaming could foster a more collaborative dynamic between the commissions and the public. Often, human rights cases arise from conflicts where rights are perceived to be in competition. A “Rights and Responsibility Commission” could serve as a mediator, emphasizing the need for individuals and institutions to balance their rights with their duties to others. This could potentially reduce friction and help build a more cohesive society.

In addition, including “responsibilities” in the commission’s title could empower the body to educate the public more effectively. Instead of focusing solely on rights violations, these commissions could take a proactive role in promoting responsible behaviour that upholds the rights of others. Education campaigns, public service announcements, and community programs could emphasize that safeguarding rights is a shared societal duty, not merely the job of commissions or the government.

Renaming human rights commissions to Rights and Responsibilities Commissions would serve as a reminder that while rights are essential, they must be balanced by the responsibilities each individual holds towards others. This change would promote a more nuanced and responsible approach to human rights in Canada, fostering a society where rights are protected through mutual respect and shared obligations.

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