International League for the Rights of Man
The International League for the Rights of Man, founded in 1942 by Roger Nash Baldwin and Henri Laugier, emerged in response to the growing global need for human rights advocacy following World War II. The organization was established to raise awareness about human rights issues and to defend individuals facing persecution for their advocacy. It gained consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council in 1946, allowing it to address human rights abuses directly before this international body.
On December 10, 1948, the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a pivotal document that the league embraced to shape its mission. In 1976, the league rebranded itself as the International League for Human Rights, reflecting its expanded focus. The organization collaborates with various international entities, including the United Nations and the Council of Europe, to promote and protect human rights globally. Through its advocacy efforts, the league has played a significant role in advancing human rights discussions and initiatives, particularly in the United States.
International League for the Rights of Man
Identification International nongovernmental human rights organization
Also Known As International League for Human Rights
Date Established in 1942
The International League for the Rights of Man is one of the oldest continuing human rights organizations.
In January, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt gave his “Four Freedoms” speech, highlighting freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom from want, and freedom from fear as rights common to all people. This speech brought to U.S. consciousness the need to defend human rights.
In 1942, Roger Nash Baldwin, a leader of the American Civil Liberties Union, along with Henri Laugier of France and other European refugees, formed the International League for the Rights of Man. Stated purposes of the league were to raise awareness of human rights issues and to defend those persecuted for defending these rights. The league was granted consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council in 1946, giving it the right to testify before that body about human rights abuses. On December 10, 1948, the United Nations ratified the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, with the United States as one of the signatories. The league embraced this document and used it to build the platform for the organization.
Impact
The organization became known as the International League for Human Rights in 1976. In addition to advocating for human rights, the organization is consulted by the United Nations, the Council of Europe, and the International Labour Organization. The league has a strong history of leading the United States in the human rights movement.
Bibliography
Korey, W. NGOs and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: A Curious Grapevine. New York: St. Martin’s Press, 1998.
Martens, K. “Professionalised Representation of Human Rights NGOs to the United Nations.” International Journal of Human Rights 10, no. 1 (2006): 19-30.