Every year on December 10, the world celebrates International Human Rights Day—a date linked to the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. This is a reminder that freedom, equality, and dignity are not abstract concepts, but a daily struggle and a responsibility of society.
Human Rights Day reminds us that freedom, dignity, and security are not abstract concepts, but form the basis of our daily lives. These values are particularly important for migrants and refugees, as their integration, adaptation, and sense of security in a new country depend on them.
Important resources to help you protect your rights
Amnesty International – Monitoring and responding to violations.
UNHCR – Legal advice and support for refugees.
Pro Asyl (Germany) – Advice on legal protection.
EU Charter of Fundamental Rights – Fundamental rights in the EU.
Violence Against Women Hotline – Round-the-clock help for women in crisis situations.
These resources are available free of charge and are treated confidentially.
Global Freedom Ranking: Ukraine and Other Countries
Freedom House—the most well-known international index that measures the state of political rights and civil liberties in over 190 countries every year.
According to Freedom House, Ukraine remains “partly free,” but its overall score has dropped significantly over the past five years. Ukraine 2020 vs. 2025 Overall decline: –11 points. Nevertheless, Ukraine remains a partially free country that continues to protect democratic institutions.
Main reasons: Impact of the war, restriction of security guarantees, pressure on freedom of expression, increased state control, restrictions under martial law. Losses were recorded in both political rights (-4) and civil liberties (-7).
The five freest countries (2024): Finland; Sweden; Norway; Netherlands; Denmark
Countries with the least freedom (2024): Syria; North Korea; Turkmenistan; South Sudan; Eritrea
Comparison of data from Freedom House:
>In 70% of countries worldwide, the level of freedom has decreased.
>Over the past ten years, there has been a steady decline in democratic indicators.
>Main causes: wars, authoritarian practices, internet censorship, political instability.
For people who find themselves in a different country, human rights are a source of support that offer them security and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.
Understanding one's own freedoms helps to:
>find one's way around the new legal system,
>avoid discrimination,
>know where to find help,
>obtain social support, education, and protection,
>build a life in a new community based on respect and dignity.
Knowing your rights is the first step to feeling safe and secure, regardless of where you live.
Author of the compilation - Marina Bets
