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Universal Declaration of Human Rights stamps

United Nations Postal Administration issues Universal Declaration of Human Rights stamps

3 May 2018

To highlight what the Universal Declaration of Human Rights means for people in their everyday lives, the United Nations Human Rights Office is celebrating the 70th Anniversary of the Declaration in 2018 with a year-long campaign #standup4humanrights.

Proclaimed by the General Assembly on 10 December 1948 and drafted by representatives of diverse legal and cultural backgrounds from all regions of the world, the Declaration sets out universal values and a common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations. It establishes the equal dignity and worth of every person.

Thanks to the Declaration, and States’ commitments to its principles, the dignity of millions has been uplifted and the foundation for a more just world has been laid. While its promise is yet to be fully realized, the very fact that it has stood the test of time is testament to the enduring universality of its perennial values.

The $2.50 stamp image depicts Eleanor Roosevelt holding one of the original Declarations. Roosevelt was the first chair of the United Nations’ Commission on Human Rights and worked to the end of her life to gain acceptance and implementation of the rights set forth in the Declaration. The image of Roosevelt is based on a photograph taken on 1 November 1949 during her visit to the United Nations Headquarters.

To purchase these stamps, as well as other UNPA products, please go to unstamps.org. You can also stop by the UNPA stamp shops in New York, Geneva and Vienna.


  • I will respect your rights regardless of who you are. I will uphold your rights even when I disagree with you
  • When anyone’s human rights are denied, everyone's rights are undermined, so I will stand up
  • I will raise my voice. I will take action. I will use my rights to stand up for your rights.

people have stood up for human rights

We can all be Human Rights Champions

Tweet, Instagram or YouTube your action using the hashtag #Standup4humanrights.

Spread the word

#Standup4humanrights