Articles

On this page you will find information about the several articles defined within the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that have been violated during the Russo-Ukrainian War. As you will see, most of these violations have occurred at the hands of Russia against the Ukrainian people.

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Article 3

Right to Life, Liberty, and Security

Article 3 states that everyone has the right to life, liberty, and personal security. In the Russo-Ukrainian War, this right has been violated through attacks on civilians and civilian areas. Thousands of people have been killed or injured, and many live under constant threat from missile strikes, drones, and military operations.

Article 5

Protection from Torture

Article 5 states that no one shall be subject to torture or other forms of cruel and inhumane treatment. In the Russo-Ukrainian War, this right has been violated by Russia through their systematic torture of Ukrainian prisoners of war. This treatment has been described as life-threatening, and intentionally degrading to break the prisoners' sense of self and human dignity.

Source: "Russia’s Systematic Torture of Ukrainian POWs"

Article 13

Freedom of Movement

Article 13 gives people the right to move freely and leave or return to their country. The war has forced millions of Ukrainians to flee their homes because of fighting and destruction. Many people are unable to safely return to their communities due to ongoing combat or occupation.

Article 15

Right to a Nationality

Article 15 states that everyone has the right to a nationality and cannot be arbitrarily deprived of it. Reports from occupied territories have raised concerns about pressure on some residents to accept Russian citizenship. This can threaten people's ability to maintain their Ukrainian nationality and identity.

Article 17

Right to Own Property

Article 17 protects people's right to own property and not be unfairly deprived of it. Throughout the Russo-Ukrainian War, homes, businesses, and farms have been destroyed or seized. Many Ukrainians have lost property because of military actions and occupation.

Article 18

Freedom of Conscience and Religion

Article 18 guarantees freedom of religion and belief. In some occupied areas, religious groups have reported restrictions on their activities and places of worship. These actions can limit people's ability to practice their faith freely.

Article 19

Freedom of Opinion and Expression

Article 19 protects the right to express opinions and share information. In areas controlled by Russia, reports have described restrictions on media, censorship, and punishment for people who publicly support Ukraine. These actions limit freedom of expression.

Article 21

Right to Take Part in Government

Article 21 states that people have the right to participate in their government. Residents of occupied Ukrainian territories have been unable to freely participate in Ukraine's democratic processes. In many cases, local political systems have been replaced or controlled by occupying authorities.

Article 25

Right to an Adequate Standard of Living

Article 25 guarantees access to food, housing, healthcare, and basic necessities. The war has damaged hospitals, housing, water systems, and power infrastructure. As a result, many people struggle to obtain the resources needed for a safe and healthy life.

Article 26

Right to Education

Article 26 states that everyone has the right to education. Many schools have been damaged or destroyed during the conflict, disrupting learning for millions of children. Students in affected areas often face limited access to safe classrooms and educational resources.

Article 30

Protection of All Rights in the Declaration

Article 30 states that no government, group, or person has the right to take away the rights listed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The widespread violations reported during the Russo-Ukrainian War, including attacks on civilians, restrictions on freedoms, and displacement of people, demonstrate how many of these rights have been threatened or denied.