Development and human rights go hand-in-hand

Human rights are universal rights. We are all born as equals and are therefore entitled to live as equals, to have the same rights regardless of our nationality, gender, religion, skin color, culture, ethnic group or sexual orientation. Human rights are also indivisible. Fundamental freedoms such as freedom of expression and participation in society are inseparable from access to basic necessities such as water, food, education and health care.

At the same time, sustainable development cannot occur in places where human rights are violated. People most affected by violations are often those who are most excluded from society, including women, ethnic minorities, people with disabilities and the impoverished. Looking at development from a human rights perspective means that we must also tackle the structural causes of poverty and exclusion.

This is why the German government has established new awards recognizing journalists who report on human rights and development.