The international community has chosen to honour the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHM) by celebrating 10 December as Human Rights Day. Every year, this Day is an opportunity to give renewed impetus to national and international efforts to better promote and protect human rights. On the eve of the 60th anniversary of the Declaration, this commemoration takes on particular significance. In accordance with the decision of the Secretary-General, the United Nations system as a whole will undertake activities throughout the year leading up to 10 December 2008 to ensure universal recognition and observance of human rights standards embodied in the international human rights law that has emerged and been consolidated as a result of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The universal threat to the fundamental human rights of life and security of person posed by unhealthy working conditions has been characterized in the UDHM, stating that «Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person» and referring to «favourable conditions of work». Therefore, all workers share the right to safe and healthful working conditions. Furthermore, the Preamble to the ILO Constitution considers «the protection of the worker against sickness, disease and injury arising out of his employment» as a precondition to universal and lasting peace.

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Read the ILO Encyclopaedia article on Occupational Health as a Human Right