Attitudes to Human Rights (WJEC Eduqas GCSE Religious Studies): Revision Note

Christian attitudes to human rights

• Christians support human rights and uphold all those set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)

• They believe that all humans are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and, therefore, should be treated with respect and fairness

• They believe that all people have dignity and worth and are equal in the eyes of God

• Teachings such as “love your neighbour as yourself” (Mark 12:31) and the Golden Rule, “Treat others as you wish to be treated”, mean that every Christian has a duty to ensure that everyone is treated fairly and with selfless, unconditional love (agape)

• Christians follow the example of Jesus, who repeatedly showed in his teachings and actions that people should treat others with respect. For example, the Parable of the Good Samaritan

• The book of Proverbs lays out that Christians should stand up for other people’s rights

• Pope Francis taught about the importance of caring for the homeless and elderly in Evangelii Gaudium

• Many Christians put these teachings into action, showing agape love by working individually and through charities to promote human rights and equality, such as:

  • Supporting church food banks

  • Volunteering for organisations such as Saint Vincent de Paul

  • Helping at Salvation Army hostels

Muslim attitudes to human rights

• Muslims support human rights because the Qur’an teaches them to protect the dignity and welfare of every human being

• Islam teaches that every human has worth because they are created by Allah and descended from Adam. This gives all people equal dignity and value

• The Qur’an strongly emphasises the sanctity of human life

• This teaches Muslims that:

  • Every human life must be respected

  • Harming one innocent person is a very serious offence

  • Protecting life is a duty

  • Dignity cannot be taken away by individuals or the state

• Islam teaches that even when criminals are punished, they must not be mistreated, as their human dignity remains

• Muslims believe they are obliged to oppose injustice and oppression wherever they see it. This is a religious duty, not simply a choice

• The ummah is the worldwide community of Muslims and is central to Islamic work for human rights and social justice through:

  • Zakah (compulsory charity for those in need)

  • Sadaqah (voluntary charity)

  • Encouraging care and support within the community

  • Challenging injustice and inequality

  • Supporting human rights organisations such as the UK-based Islamic Human Rights Commission, which campaigns for justice and equality for all people. It investigates human rights abuses worldwide, raises awareness and supports victims of injustice

• Civil rights campaigner Malcolm X spoke about the equality of the ummah during the Hajj pilgrimage as a powerful example of human dignity in action. He described it as a “brotherhood among people of all colours and backgrounds”