“As we enter the new century, we do so with the knowledge that enjoyment of all human rights, including the right to development, is the cornerstone of peace and security, and the key to preventing future conflict and building a common future”.
Mary Robinson, High Commissioner for Human Rights, Opening Statement to the 55th Session of the Commission on Human Rights, 1999

Introduction
Article 1(3) of the UN Charter provides for the pursuit of international coop- eration by resolving international problems of an economic, social, cultural or humanitarian character, promoting and encouraging respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language or religion. To this end, the United Nations has embarked on the continuous process of articulating human rights in order to translate them from morality and principles into binding international law. These standards are the result of a gradual evolution over several decades with the participation of United Nations bodies, many nations, non-governmental organizations and individuals.
The adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Universal Dec- laration), in 1948, was the first step towards the progressive codification of international human rights. In the 50 years that have elapsed since then, the extraordinary visions enshrined in the principles of the Declaration have proved timeless and enduring. The principles have inspired more than 100 human rights instruments which, taken together, constitute international human rights standards. Outlined below are some significant international human rights instruments and developments.