EUROPEAN CULTURE OF HUMAN RIGHTS. THE RIGHT TO HAPPINESS
On 10 December 1948, 58 states have decided to sign a document turning their gesture in a historic moment with a significant impact on how people should look at regardless of race, ethnicity, sex, religion or social status. This international recognition of equality between people inevitably led to a better understanding between peoples and, at the same time, opened the way to new collaborations uniting countries from all cardinal points of the globe.
Let us not forget, however, that we are the privileged ones who enjoy to the greatest extent the advantages of this document and that it is our duty to carry on the tradition of peace and good understanding. Together people, institutions, Federation, countries, we must fight for the respect of the fundamental principles characteristic of human dignity. UNESCO with civil society is by definition a representative body that promotes human rights through activities carried out in three key areas: education, science and culture. And just as we learned from those before us the importance of values, now we have to teach those who will be in our place in a little while. So, I am addressing you young generations who will soon take over the baton and you will have to think and implement viable strategies that will provide the expected effort.
Violations of fundamental human rights did not disappear with the signing of the Charter and these injustices still occur today, in some regions on an unimaginable scale. In the European Union, Human Rights, democracy and the rule of law are essential values and are inscribed in its founding treaty, and the countries that want to join the EU, or those that have entered into commercial or other agreements with the Union, must respect these essential values. I hope you too find the strength and have the intuition of extraordinary strategies that see through any abyss, the possibility of building a lasting bridge based on communication and dialogue.
Eleonore Roosevelt is one of the public figures associated with the adoption of the Universal Bill of Human Rights, which is why I chose a quote that belongs to her: Understanding is a two-way street. Therefore, my dear younger colleagues, never forget to communicate with those around you, tell your opinion, but listen to them and try to understand your purpose on this Earth.
And because the theme of the event is about happiness, I would like to conclude by saying a few words about every man's right to happiness. When the celebration of the international day of the right to happiness was established at the UN level, not only material aspects were taken into account, but especially immaterial things reified in relationships with friends, family; relationships with people. It is all the more relevant for this time of the year to talk about happiness and every human's right to feel happy. For each of us, happiness means something different, so I conclude by wishing you find happiness for yourselves and help build the happiness of others.
