Denial of right to security

Nature

Denial of right to security refers to the systematic or incidental failure to protect individuals or groups from harm, violence, or threats, thereby violating a fundamental human right. This problem can arise from state inaction, discriminatory policies, or inadequate legal frameworks, leaving people vulnerable to abuse, crime, or conflict. The denial of security undermines personal safety, social stability, and trust in institutions, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. Recognized in international human rights law, the right to security is essential for the enjoyment of other rights, and its denial constitutes a significant barrier to justice and equality.

Background

The denial of the right to security emerged as a global concern in the aftermath of World War II, when mass displacements and state-sponsored violence highlighted the vulnerability of individuals to arbitrary harm. International attention intensified with the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, yet subsequent decades revealed persistent gaps, as conflicts, authoritarian regimes, and systemic discrimination continued to expose populations worldwide to insecurity, prompting ongoing international debate and advocacy.

Incidence

Denial of the right to security affects millions globally, manifesting in contexts such as armed conflict, political repression, and systemic discrimination. Populations in unstable regions, minority groups, and human rights defenders are particularly vulnerable, with the United Nations reporting persistent threats to personal safety in over 30 countries. The problem is exacerbated by weak legal protections and impunity for perpetrators, making it a persistent and widespread concern.
In 2023, in Sudan, widespread violence during the conflict between rival military factions led to the denial of security for civilians in Khartoum and Darfur, resulting in mass displacement and numerous reports of targeted attacks against non-combatants.

Claim

The denial of the right to security is a grave injustice that undermines the very foundation of human dignity and freedom. No society can claim to be just or civilized while allowing its people to live in fear, vulnerability, or constant threat. Ignoring this fundamental right perpetuates cycles of violence, discrimination, and instability. Addressing the denial of security is not optional—it is an urgent moral and social imperative that demands immediate action.

Counter-claim

The so-called "denial of right to security" is vastly overstated and hardly a pressing issue. In reality, most people already enjoy adequate protection through existing laws and institutions. Focusing on this supposed problem only distracts from more urgent societal concerns. Resources and attention would be better spent elsewhere, rather than inflating the significance of a right that, for the vast majority, is neither threatened nor denied in any meaningful way.