The Language of Human Rights: Who Gets to Speak It?

This research examines the field of human rights through a decolonial lens, critically analyzing how the Eurocentric origins of human rights impact their relevance for the Global South. Initiated by Aníbal Quijano, decolonial studies have evolved to challenge traditional European narratives in international relations. While human rights are often portrayed as universal and apolitical, this research argues that such perceptions obscure their colonial underpinnings and the historical exclusions of non-Western voices. By establishing a theoretical foundation grounded in decolonial theory, this study explores whether marginalized groups can effectively reclaim human rights as tools for advocacy despite their role in upholding coloniality through cultural subjugation. It considers critical perspectives that argue human rights cannot accommodate decolonial demands, as well as counterarguments suggesting the potential for reform within the existing framework. Through a literature review and historical analysis, this research highlights the complexities of human rights rhetoric and its role in shaping social movements. Ultimately, it aims to propose pathways for decolonizing the human rights discourse, advocating for a multicultural dialogue that authentically represents the diverse experiences and understandings of human dignity in the Global South instead of disavowing the importance of human rights for subaltern groups.