10 December 2025 - A Volt Perspective on Human Rights Day

Volt's view on Human Rights Day is not merely about commemoration, but a call to daily, active defense of human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, and the rule of law in the face of rising threats from far-right forces, racism, and discrimination.

Core Principles and Commitments

Volt's approach to human rights is rooted in several core principles, as detailed in the party's policies and founding documents:

• Universality and Inalienability: Human rights are not granted by states or governments; they are inherent to all individuals, transcending race, gender, nationality, religion, or any other status.

• Social Equality and Inclusion: A central tenet of Volt's platform is the fight against discrimination and exclusion. No one should be left behind, regardless of their gender, income, religion, or origin. Volt specifically addresses issues like LGBTQIA+ rights, gender equality, and the fight against antisemitism and islamophobia.

• Rule of Law and Democracy: Volt is committed to strengthening the mechanisms that protect human rights and democratic values, including ensuring a robust and transparent legal system and protecting civil society, journalists, and media workers who are often on the front lines of defending these rights.

• Holistic Approach: Volt views human rights holistically, extending them to modern challenges and the digital sphere. This includes promoting better digital rights, ensuring fair and humane asylum systems, and addressing the human rights implications of climate change and technological advancements like AI.

• Citizen Empowerment: Volt aims to empower citizens to influence politics and actively participate in decision-making processes, ensuring that every voice can be heard and contribute to shaping the future.

A Call to Action

On Human Rights Day, Volt calls on all citizens and governments to:

• Defend Rights Actively: Silence in the face of human rights violations or tolerance of hate and racism should not be an option.

• Ensure Equal Opportunities: Strive to build a society where arbitrary differences no longer act as brakes on a person's well-being and potential.

• Uphold International Law: Ensure national policies, including border security and asylum procedures, are in full compliance with international human rights law.

• Collaborate Transnationally: Recognize that many significant problems, such as climate change and global migration, have no borders and require unified, cooperative solutions at a pan-European and global level.

Volt believes that lasting change can only be achieved through tireless commitment to human rights, collaboration among global actors, and the empowerment of every individual to realize their rights. Hope, for Volt, is not an option, but a duty.