Global

10 December 2023 marks the 75th anniversary of one of the world's most groundbreaking global pledges: the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). This landmark document enshrines the inalienable rights that everyone is entitled to as a human being - regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status.

The Declaration was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on 10 December 1948 and sets out, for the first time, fundamental human rights to be universally protected.  

Human health, in the coming decades (and already in some “front-running” regions), is in peril. Although some authorities warn that over-stating such risks can induce paralysis and despair, under-stating them will not generate the intense action that is required. The impact of climate change on the Earth system is now so significant that the next ice age will likely be delayed by at least 50,000 years [201]. If humans do not rapidly change their collective behavior, then this may be their most enduring legacy. It is hoped that this chapter makes a small contribution to SDG3.

Approximately 15 per cent of the world's population live with some form of disability and 80 per cent live in developing countries. This Special collection aims to highlight this important issue and hopefully provide measures towards an inclusive and supported environment for all irrespective of disability. All book chapters and journal articles are free to download and share.

This content advances UN SDG 10 and 13 goals highlighting the importance of inclusive approaches, incorporation of indigenous and traditional culture and knowledge, innovation as well as working with local communities to provide benefits both for ecosystem and wildlife conservation, and climate-resilient livelihoods.