Human Rights Anniversary Calls Us To Be Consistent.

The Leaders of the Australian Congregations of the Sisters of St Joseph have written to the Prime Minister asking him to use the occasion of this week’s 60th anniversary of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights to announce that Australia will ratify the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Sr Anne Derwin spoke on behalf of the Congregational and Provincial Leaders of 1200 Sisters of St Joseph across Australia. ‘Sixty years ago the nations of the world joined together in recognising that all people, in all nations, are free and equal regardless of race, religion, economic status, age or gender, and they brought into being the first international document recognising that human rights are the foundation of peace, justice and freedom in the world,’ she said.

‘It is important to remember that Australia was very involved in developing the concept of the Declaration, and was one of the eight nations involved in its drafting.  We have remained a key supporter of human rights in subsequent international treaty negotiations and have ratified almost all the major international human rights instruments.  The one significant exception has been our refusal in the General Assembly last year to endorse the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People,’ Sr Anne said.

‘The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples affirms the richness and diversity of Indigenous cultures.  It promotes equality and non-discrimination, and recognises the right of Indigenous people to self-determination.  The Declaration is based on the principles of partnership, consultation and co-operation between Indigenous peoples and States.  It does not create new rights, it elaborates on already existing human rights principles and norms embedded in earlier human rights documents, and applies them to Indigenous people.

‘The 60th anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights provides an opportunity to assess the application of human rights around the world.  Post War Australian governments have done good work – wonderful work – over many years championing human rights issues.  Our non-acceptance of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People stands in stark contrast.  We are asking that the government act quickly to remove this aberration and keep our human rights record intact.’ Sr Anne concluded.

9 December 2008