In 1948, the United Nations adopted and declared this day as Universal Human Rights Day in order to respect human valuew.

Tibetans observe this day to protest against the Chinese continued gross violation of human rights in Tibet and China. It is also the day to urge the United Nations and its bodies to take immediate measures to prevent China’s violation of human rights and to implement the passed resolutions on Tibet.

The day also coincides with the commemoration of the conferment of the Nobel Peace Prize to His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 1989.