Human Rights
The world was horrified by the attrocities of the Second World War. The United Nations was formed, and representatives from countries around the world agreed on standards for how all people are treated.
The UN Declaration of Human RIghts lists rules that should apply to all people, whatever country they are in. All humans have a right to say what they think and to choose their own religion. They have a right to have their basic needs met, for food, water and a place to live. All people should feel safe, and should not be arrested without a reason.
In 2008, most countries agree with the UN Declaration. However, there are some countries where individuals are arrested without reason and kept in prison without charge. They may be beaten, even killed. People kept in prison because of their beliefs are called 'Prisoners of Conscience'. Organisations like Amnesty International work to help prisoners of conscience and people whose rights are taken from them. Many Christians support this work.
