UN General Assembly
1982

widely and seriously felt need to preserve the process itself in order to revive and enhance its con¬tribution to detente in Europe. A successful outcome of the Madrid meeting would not only have a positive effect on the relations between the European States, but also have an impact on the international situation as a whole. 270. The Charter of the United Nations established respect and promotion of human rights as one of the main principles of the Organization. In terms of the Preamble, respect for human rights is equal in urgency with saving future generations from the scourge of war. The United Nations has created an ample body of international legislation on human rights. Yet the implementation of these rights and freedoms is woefully inadequate. Violations of human rights are the rule rather than an exception. Yet all Member States have undertaken a solemn commitment to promote and respect human rights. Observance of human rights is not an option but an obligation. The rights of man are not dependent on political or ideological considerations.