political Freedoms

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights consists of an introduction or preamble and thirty articles. On this page we are going to expose articles 18 to 21. They include the rights we have when we interact publicly with the rest of the citizens of our society, in matters such as politics or religion. In these matters, human rights affirm everyone's freedom to express their opinion and associate as we see fit. They are the so-called political freedoms.

Study each of these articles:

• • Is it a freedom or a guarantee (positive or negative)? Some of the articles may be both.

  • Pay attention to the words with which it is formulated, explain those little known or technical words. Explain the law in your words.

  • Rights in general have limitations and conditions for their application. Find those limitations and conditions.

  • What is the reciprocal obligation to the right presented?

Article 18. Freedom of Thought

Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.

Article 19. Freedom of Expression

Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.

Article 20. Right to public assembly

1. Everyone has the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association.

2. No one may be compelled to belong to an association.

Article 21. Right to Democracy

1. Everyone has the right to take part in the government of his country, directly or through freely chosen representatives.

2. Everyone has the right to equal access to public service in his country.

3. The will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government; this will shall be expressed in periodic and genuine elections which shall be by universal and equal suffrage and shall be held by secret vote or by equivalent free voting procedures.