The following is an abridged version of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations in 1948. Although the Declaration, which comprises a broad range of rights, is not a legally binding document, it has inspired more than 60 human rights instruments, which together constitute an international standard of human rights. These instruments include the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, both of which are legally binding treaties. Together with the Universal Declaration, they constitute the International Bill of Rights. A copy of the Declaration is available in most libraries, from United Nations information centers in each nation's capital city, and on the United Nations Internet website.
Every person is born free and equal in dignity and rights.
Every person has human rights regardless of race, sex, language, belief or religion. Every person has the right to life, liberty and security. Slavery and the slave trade are prohibited. No person shall be subjected to torture. Every person has the right to recognition as a person before the law.