7 Cultural Traditions That Violate Human Rights and Need to Be Abolished
Cultural traditions are an integral part of every society. They are passed down from generation to generation and shape the beliefs and practices of our communities. However, some of these traditions are harmful to human rights and need to be abolished. Here are seven cultural practices that violate human rights:
1. Female Genital Mutilation:
Female genital mutilation, also known as female circumcision, is a cultural practice that involves the partial or complete removal of the female external genitals. This practice is still prevalent in many African and Middle Eastern countries, where it is seen as a tradition that marks a girl’s transition to womanhood. However, it can cause significant physical and psychological harm to girls and women and is a clear violation of their rights.
2. Child Marriage:
Child marriage is a cultural practice that involves marrying off girls before they attain the age of 18. This practice is still prevalent in many parts of the world, especially in Africa and the Middle East. Child marriage violates a girl’s right to education, health, and an independent life. It also exposes them to physical and psychological harm.
3. Honor Killings:
Honor killings are murders of women who are perceived to have brought disgrace to the family’s reputation. This practice is prevalent in many parts of the world, especially in South Asia and the Middle East. It is a gross violation of human rights, as it denies the victim the right to life, security, and equality before the law.
4. Forced Labor:
Forced labor or modern-day slavery is prevalent in many parts of the world. It involves forcing people to work without pay under duress, threats, or coercion. This practice violates the individual’s right to life, liberty, and security of person.
5. Discrimination against LGBTQ+ Community:
Discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community is still prevalent in many parts of the world. This discrimination takes the form of societal stigmatization, harassment, and legal restrictions. This practice denies the LGBTQ+ community their right to life, liberty, and freedom of association.
6. Discrimination against people with disabilities:
Discrimination against people with disabilities is prevalent in many parts of the world. This discrimination takes the form of societal stigmatization, lack of access to education, work, and healthcare. This practice denies people with disabilities their right to dignity, equality, and access to basic services.
7. Religious intolerance:
Religious intolerance is prevalent in many parts of the world, where individuals are discriminated against based on their beliefs. This practice denies individuals their right to freedom of religious belief and expression.
In conclusion, cultural practices that violate human rights must be abolished. It is essential to create awareness and promote human rights education to end these harmful traditions. We must ensure that every individual’s rights are protected, irrespective of their culture, religion, or background.
