Right To Truth Day

Georgia Stone
Dec 22, 2023 By Georgia Stone
Originally Published on Mar 08, 2022
Fact-checked by Amanpreet Kaur
Learn more about Right To Truth Day.

Where is Right To Truth Day observed?

All over the world, it's commemorated to pay tribute to the victims and their families, as well as to demand the truth about what happened. 

Who is Right To Truth Day observed by?

The United Nations encourages all people around the world to promote this day in honor of the memory of victims' rights and dignity.

When did Right To Truth Day first start?

The day has been observed by the UN General Assembly annually since March 24, 2011.

Who started Right To Truth Day?

The United Nations General Assembly declared March 24 as International Right To Truth Day on December 21, 2010.

History And Timeline

In a study conducted by the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in 2006, the right to the truth about gross human rights violations was recognized as an inalienable and autonomous right. Read more about the historical events related to this day in history.

Archbishop Oscar Arnulfo Romero

On March 24, 1980 Archbishop Oscar Romero of El Salvador was assassinated for denouncing violations, opposing violence, and calling for justice.

1980

Truth Commission For El Salvador

Under the Mexico Agreement of April 27, 1991, the UN set up a commission to investigate severe acts of violence that had occurred since 1980.

1992

Report By Truth Commission

The Truth Commission for El Salvador probed severe human rights violations that occurred during the country's 12-year civil war in its report dated March 15, 1993.

1993

Right To Truth Published

According to a 2006 study by the United Nations, the right to know the facts about gross human rights law violations is an inherent right connected to the state's duty and obligation to ensure effective justice and reparations.

2006

Human Rights Council

In a 2009 study, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights identified the best practices required for the efficient implementation of the Right to the Truth.

2009

Traditions And Customs

This day is intended to honor the memory of the victims of gross human rights violations while also drawing attention to the ongoing struggles of individuals and groups seeking reparations. It's an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and governments to resolve to promote and protect human rights.

Ways To Observe Right To Truth Day

There are a lot of ways you can get involved and support the victims against gross human rights violations on this day. You can write letters to your representatives or donate to a human rights organization.

You can also join protestors by marching in solidarity or lighting a candle in honor of victims who have died fighting for human rights. Make sure your voice is heard on this important day!

Facts And Stats

  • Right To Truth celebrates the idea of an individual's right to truth, which can be traced to Latin America, with more than one-third of truth commissions established there in the last three decades.
  • Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) demanded on Right To Truth Day 2021 that the state take concrete steps to uncover the truth about human rights violations occurring in Zimbabwe.
  • Global Action for Trans Equality, an international social justice organization, urges people to end misinformation, ignorance, and stigma around the transgender community on Right To Truth Day.

Is there a right to the truth?

Right to truth is essential for the victims, their families, and their communities to move on and rebuild their lives.

Do we have the right to fight for justice and truth?

This day serves as a reminder to continue fighting for the truth, denouncing violations, and assisting victims in receiving reparations.

Who encouraged the celebration of this day?

The United Nations commemorate it every year to seek accountability and reparations for all victims of gross human rights violations.

What are some events related to Right To Truth Day?

Other similar events include the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, Honesty Day, and Tell the Truth Day.

How is Right To Truth Day different from Truth Day?

While Right To Truth Day is a UN designated event that promotes the right to truth for all victims of human rights abuses seeking accountability, Truth day is an unofficial holiday that encourages people to always tell the truth.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Tuesday, March 24, 2020
  • Wednesday, March 24, 2021
  • Thursday, March 24, 2022
  • Friday, March 24, 2023
  • Sunday, March 24, 2024

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Written by Georgia Stone

Bachelor of Arts specializing in French with Film Studies, Bachelor of Arts (Year Abroad) specializing in Literature, History, Language, Media, and Art

Georgia Stone picture

Georgia StoneBachelor of Arts specializing in French with Film Studies, Bachelor of Arts (Year Abroad) specializing in Literature, History, Language, Media, and Art

Georgia is an experienced Content Manager with a degree in French and Film Studies from King's College London and Bachelors degree from Université Paris-Sorbonne. Her passion for exploring the world and experiencing different cultures was sparked during her childhood in Switzerland and her year abroad in Paris. In her spare time, Georgia enjoys using London's excellent travel connections to explore further afield.

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Fact-checked by Amanpreet Kaur

Bachelor of Business Administration, Masters of Business Administration specializing in Accounting and Finance

Amanpreet Kaur picture

Amanpreet KaurBachelor of Business Administration, Masters of Business Administration specializing in Accounting and Finance

Amanpreet has a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree in Business Administration from the Birla Institute of Technology and Xavier Institute of Social Service respectively, coupled with her internships at Decimal Point Analytics and the Royal Bank of Scotland, has equipped her with the necessary skills to analyze complex data and present insights in an easy-to-understand format. Her paper on the impact of COVID-19 on CSR programs has received high commendation.

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