Module 2 What are Rights ? Session 1 Introduction There are many definitions presented for the term ‘Rights’ and generally, the rights given to human beings by nature in order to lead a good life are considered as rights. But in the history of the world there have been instances where these rights were suppressed, disregarded or violated with social, political and economic changes. On such occasions people rose up in numerous ways against such suppressions or violations. As a result of such agitations there emerged a legal foundation that advocated that such rights should be established and protected. In this Session the definitions of Human Rights will be discussed. Objectives • To identify the various definitions of “Rights” • To identify the universal or common nature of rights. Duration 1 hour Activity 1 • Discuss what participants feel when the term “rights” is mentioned. Ask them what the meaning/opinion they attach to it. Do the following activities to provide a clear and simple interpretation of this term. • Give instructions to participants (for 5 minutes) to identify various divisions/differences of individuals (eg. black, white, brown human types, elder-child etc.) • Give instructions to some participants to present before the others identified personal differences. Matters relating to various differences such as gender, ethnic groups, race, caste, class, occupations, disabilities (differently- abled) may be referred to at this stage. Accordingly, the resource person should write such divisions on the white board. Divide the differences under two categories as physical and social matters. Eg: Physical differences Social differences • Race • Ethnicity • Sexual differences • Religion • With/without different abilities • Language • Tall/short • Caste • Class • Place of birth/residence • Dress, jewellery • Gender 95