The photo was taken in an area that will soon be built on the so-called “Promishlena” street on the outskirts of the city. This view will be blocked by a new residential building as well as by various factories. Despite the beautiful view now, the lack of green parks can be seen, and the smell of smoke from solid fuels such as coal and wood can be felt. You’re probably wondering what this has to do with human rights violations? Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person. So what personal security does the over-construction and high level of pollution of the city provide me? What right to life do multiple lung conditions give me?
Author: David Stefanov, student from the Grammar High School “Academic Ljudmil Koroljov” , Blagoevgrad
Reflection Questions:
- What is the relationship between the environment and human rights?
- How does the environment affect other human rights, such as the right to health and quality of life?