Reflection

After taking this class and spending four months in Paris, I have a greater understanding of human rights and a greater competency in discussing their relation to international events. The topics we have discussed were interesting and opened my eyes to the many definitions of human rights that we all must reconcile in order to form our own, cohesive definition. I now generally proscribe to the Westin definition that human rights are universal, fundamental, based on a structure of power, of a moral order, and interdependent but also believe that they must be looked at through a cultural lens at many times as well. While some human rights cannot be applied with great ease to certain cultures, others are universal and no matter the struggle, they must be enforced. I have also developed a greater understanding of how the United Nations functions in the complicated world of human rights. Prior to studying abroad and taking this course, I had the opinion that the United Nations was not effectively protecting the human rights of the world when so many genocides and atrocities happen every day. Now, I understand that the UN was not created to be the police force for human rights and can only do so much in domestic affairs. I understand that the United Nations is a vital and largely effective body in protecting and enforcing human rights through the means it has been given. Overall, my opinions on human rights have evolved in a way that now allows me to see the sense of urgency in enforcing and protecting these rights because of their universality. This course has given me the tools to vocalize these opinions and contribute to discussions and debates on human rights and their importance.