Global Human Rights in Focus: Current Challenges and Pathways to Progress

Global Human Rights in Focus: Current Challenges and Pathways to Progress 

Introduction 

The global state of human rights in the 21st century continues to evolve, with notable advances in areas such as LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality, alongside persistent challenges like systemic discrimination, conflict-induced displacement, and the rise of authoritarian regimes. Despite progress, marginalized communities remain vulnerable, and civil liberties are under constant threat.
This report explores the current human rights landscape, drawing on contributions to various advocacy initiatives, including my work supporting Jewish groups and activists, amplifying the voices of LGBTQ+ communities, and addressing key global challenges. With decades of experience in human rights advocacy, I’ve supported efforts by Jewish rapporteurs in the U.S. and Canada, as well as contributed to reports on LGBTQ+ rights through submissions to UN bodies  and the Centre for Human Rights at the University of Pretoria, and the UN Human Rights Committee via SOGI (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity) submissions. These efforts emphasize the need for a collective, coordinated approach to addressing the pressing issues we face today.
Current Challenges
1. Systemic Discrimination
Systemic discrimination remains deeply rooted across various sectors, manifesting in racial, gender-based, and sexual orientation-based discrimination. These injustices continue to marginalize millions worldwide, from indigenous populations in Latin America to Black communities in the United States.
Racial Discrimination
Globally, indigenous communities continue to face discrimination, land dispossession, and cultural erasure, while the rise of right-wing populism in Europe has fueled xenophobia against Muslim and Roma populations. Activist movements like Black Lives Matter have played a crucial role in bringing attention to these issues, driving policy changes and fostering global solidarity.
The effects of racial discrimination are pervasive, particularly in the criminal justice, education, and healthcare sectors. In the United States, racial disparities in incarceration rates persist, with Black Americans imprisoned at five times the rate of their white counterparts. This systemic inequality extends to education, where underfunded schools in predominantly Black neighborhoods struggle to provide students with the same opportunities available in more affluent areas.

Gender Discrimination
Despite progress in women’s rights, gender inequality continues to be a pressing issue worldwide. The Global Gender Gap Report 2023 estimates that economic gender parity will take over a century to achieve at the current rate. Additionally, gender-based violence remains prevalent, with millions of women experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, and harassment.
The pandemic exacerbated these disparities, as women faced increased domestic violence and were disproportionately affected by economic insecurity. In response, global movements like #MeToo have sparked important conversations around gender-based violence and pushed for significant legal reforms.
LGBTQ+ Rights
LGBTQ+ individuals face widespread discrimination, particularly in regions where homosexuality is still criminalized. Conversion therapy, a harmful practice aimed at changing an individual's sexual orientation, remains legal in several parts of the world, contributing to the marginalization and abuse of LGBTQ+ individuals.
I have contributed to addressing LGBTQ+ conversion therapy, particularly through submissions to the Centre for Human Rights at the University of Pretoria, which responded to a call-out to tackle this issue in Africa. My work highlights the need for robust legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals and the importance of raising awareness about the dangers of conversion therapy. Additionally, I’ve contributed to UN bodies reports on LGBTQ+ rights, providing insights into the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ communities globally.
Rising Antisemitism
Antisemitism has surged globally, manifesting in both hate crimes and institutional discrimination. According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), in the three months following the October 7th massacre in Israel, U.S. antisemitic incidents increased by 361%, with 3,291 incidents reported between October 7 and January 7, compared to 712 incidents the previous year. This trend highlights a growing climate of hatred and intolerance toward Jewish communities.
In response, I have worked to amplify the voices of Jewish groups and activists, supporting their efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of antisemitism. Through my activism, I have aimed to encourage wider public support for Jewish communities and actively disseminate the work of Jewish rapporteurs in the U.S. and Canada. My role has focused on amplifying the messages of Jewish activists, encouraging dialogue, and fostering solidarity among different communities to combat rising antisemitism.



2. Conflict-Induced Displacement
Conflict-induced displacement remains a significant global challenge, with millions of people forcibly displaced due to war, persecution, and environmental factors. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), over 82 million people are displaced globally, including refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced persons.
Syrian Refugee Crisis
The conflict in Syria has led to one of the largest refugee crises in recent history, with over 13 million people displaced. Neighboring countries like Lebanon, Jordan, and Turkey bear the brunt of this influx, leading to strained resources and limited access to education, healthcare, and employment for refugees.
In response to this crisis, international organizations like the UNHCR and various NGOs have worked to provide shelter, healthcare, and education for refugees. However, the protracted nature of the conflict has left millions of Syrians without permanent homes or a sense of stability. Countries in Europe and North America have implemented resettlement programs, but the global response remains insufficient to address the scope of the crisis. My advocacy work emphasizes the need for a more coordinated international response, particularly in providing mental health support and education for displaced children.
Climate-Induced Displacement
With climate change accelerating, millions more are expected to be displaced by environmental factors. The World Bank projects that over 143 million people will be displaced by 2050, particularly in regions like sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Latin America. These climate refugees currently lack adequate legal protections, and there is a pressing need for a legal framework that acknowledges their rights.
My activism on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) advocates for recognition of climate refugees and prioritizes funding for climate adaptation programs to prevent future displacement. This advocacy underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing the root causes of displacement.



3. Corporate Complicity in Human Rights Abuses
Corporations, particularly in extractive and technology industries, are often complicit in human rights violations. Private security forces hired by corporations have been implicated in violence against indigenous communities defending their land rights. Meanwhile, technology companies supplying surveillance tools to authoritarian regimes enable repression and limit citizens' freedoms.
My advocacy emphasizes the implementation of mandatory human rights due diligence laws, especially in the EU, to hold corporations accountable in their supply chains. However, enforcement on a global scale remains inconsistent, highlighting the need for stronger accountability measures.


4. Peace Activism and the Ukraine Conflict
As part of my peace activism, I’ve been actively engaged in advocating for diplomatic solutions to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This conflict has resulted in numerous human rights abuses, including the targeting of civilians and the forced displacement of millions. My efforts include submitting letters to the Russian Federation, urging an end to hostilities and advocating for a peaceful resolution. Additionally, my activism aims to amplify calls for international accountability in cases of documented abuses.



5. Protection of Human Rights Defenders
Human rights defenders face increasing risks, from legal threats to physical harm. Authoritarian regimes worldwide implement laws that restrict civil society organizations, intimidate activists, and suppress dissent. Protecting these defenders is crucial to maintaining global advocacy efforts.
Through my contributions to various reports and campaigns, I emphasize the need for strong international protections for human rights defenders. Increased security, legal support, and public pressure on repressive regimes are essential to safeguarding these voices.



6. International Jurisdiction for Accountability
International jurisdiction plays a critical role in holding perpetrators of human rights violations accountable. Recent UN discussions, including the potential Convention on Crimes Against Humanity, represent progress in establishing legal mechanisms to pursue justice on a global scale. I support calls for a convention that would empower states to investigate and prosecute these crimes, providing justice pathways for victims and advancing the global fight against impunity.



Strategies for Advancement
1. Euthanasia Prevention in Canada
I have also contributed to euthanasia prevention in Canada, advocating for strong safeguards to ensure that euthanasia policies do not disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. My activism has emphasized the importance of providing adequate healthcare, mental health services, and palliative care options, rather than focusing solely on offering euthanasia as a solution.
2. SOGI Submission to the UN Human Rights Committee
My advocacy also includes responding to the UN Human Rights Committee's call-out for submissions on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI). I have contributed to ensuring that LGBTQ+ rights remain a central focus in international human rights discussions and that the rights of sexual minorities are upheld through concrete legal measures.
3. Digital Security for Human Rights Defenders
Human rights defenders increasingly rely on digital tools to communicate, making them vulnerable to online surveillance, harassment, and cyberattacks. Providing secure communication methods and data protection is critical to safeguarding their work. Training on digital security practices, such as using encryption tools and secure platforms, can help protect human rights defenders from being targeted by authoritarian regimes or other malicious actors.


Conclusion
The global human rights landscape is marked by challenges, but also opportunities for progress. By adopting a multifaceted approach that combines grassroots activism, international collaboration, and technological innovation, we can create a more just and equitable society.
My advocacy has focused on amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, supporting Jewish groups, LGBTQ+ rights, indigenous rights, and human rights defenders. By continuing to promote accountability, transparency, and justice, we can work toward a world where all individuals are afforded the rights and protections they deserve. Our collective actions today will shape a future where human dignity and justice are upheld for all.



Bio Box
Dean Bordode is a dedicated human rights advocate with over 30 years of experience in labor rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and peace activism. Dean has contributed to various reports on LGBTQ+ rights, including submissions to UN  bodies, the Centre for Human Rights at the University of Pretoria, and the UN Human Rights Committee. His activism also includes advocacy for Jewish communities and amplifying the voices of marginalized groups globally, with a focus on strengthening safeguards in euthanasia policies and advocating for climate and peace justice.


References
1. Amnesty International. (2023). Annual Report 2023: The State of the World’s Human Rights. Amnesty International. Retrieved from Amnesty International.

2. Anti-Defamation League (ADL). (2024). Antisemitism Data Report. Retrieved from ADL.

3. Human Rights Watch. (2023). World Report 2023: Events of 2022. Human Rights Watch. Retrieved from Human Rights Watch.

4. United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). (2023). Global Trends: Forced Displacement in 2022. UNHCR. Retrieved from UNHCR.

5. International Criminal Court (ICC). (2023). Annual Report. ICC. Retrieved from ICC.

6. Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria. (2023). LGBTQ+ Conversion Therapy in Africa Report. Faculty of Law, University of Pretoria.

7. World Bank. (2021). Climate Change and Migration in Sub-Saharan Africa. Retrieved from World Bank.

8. ILGA World. (2023). State-Sponsored Homophobia Report. ILGA. Retrieved from ILGA World.




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