World Conference on Human Rights
Vienna, 14-25 June 1993
A Brief Introduction *
The World Conference on Human Rights in 1993 reaffirmed international commitment to all
human rights, and to strengthening the mechanisms for monitoring and promoting human
rights worldwide (see also Universal Declaration
of Human Rights).
It led to the appointment of the first High Commissioner for Human Rights, to improve
the ability of the UN to act quickly and efficiently to prevent rights violations and
promote fundamental freedoms.
The Conference also instigated the inclusion of human rights as an integral element in
UN peace-keeping missions, and declared the link between democracy, development and human
rights.
* taken and adapted from: United Nations Conferences: What have They Accomplished? at http://www.un.org/News/facts/confrncs.htm
