Center for Human Rights Education and Training (English version)

Message from the President

Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states, “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.” Human dignity means that human beings possess reason, conscience and free will, and that everybody must be treated equally. Human rights are inherent rights that each person has based on human dignity. Furthermore, these rights are inviolable and cannot be given away.

What of the actual situation in society? Throughout the world, and Japan is no exception, the human rights of vulnerable people are being violated on a daily basis.

The 21st century is said to be a “century of human rights.” We are creating this century. It is the mission and responsibility of each one of us to know and protect human rights, which are fundamental to our lives.

Through its activities as a national center for human rights education, the Center for Human Rights Education and Training informs and encourages people to think about human rights issues and to share a commitment to protecting human rights.

We welcome your support and cooperation.

Shigeki Sakamoto
President