The diversity of perspectives is one of the greatest strengths of the international community. I would like to offer the Marshall Islands as an example where cultural traditions and historical background have served to enhance recognition of human rights while preserving cultural values. The Marshall Islands Constitution represents a unique blend of island social culture and human rights theory, and demonstrates that the two are often fully compatible and complimentary. My fellow Pacific islanders fully understand this concept, which is difficult to put into words. In such an atmosphere, respect for human rights follows naturally.
Democracy serves a similar purpose.
There is no better atmosphere for the promotion of human rights. When citizens are given a voice, their conceptions of human rights ultimately rise and become institutionalized. We have seen this take place not only in my own country but recently throughout many nations of the world. Our constitutions enshrine many of the principles contained in the Universal Declaration. These were not imposed from the outside, but rather reflect the desires of our people.