Universal Declaration of the Rights of the Homeless

Universal Declaration of the Rights of the Homeless

Preamble Recognizing the inherent dignity and equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family as the foundation of freedom, justice, and peace in the world, and acknowledging the unique challenges and vulnerabilities faced by homeless individuals globally, we hereby proclaim this Universal Declaration of the Rights of the Homeless as a common standard for all people and nations.

Articles

Article 1: Right to Dignity and Respect Every homeless individual shall be treated with dignity and respect by all members of society and the state.

Article 2: Right to Shelter Every homeless individual has the right to safe, accessible, and adequate shelter that provides protection from the elements and a sense of security.

Article 3: Right to Non-Discrimination No person shall be discriminated against on the basis of their housing status in any sphere of life, including but not limited to employment, education, healthcare, and public services.

Article 4: Right to Basic Needs Every homeless individual has the right to access basic necessities such as food, clean water, sanitation, and clothing.

Article 5: Right to Health Care Homeless individuals have the right to access comprehensive healthcare services, including mental health care, without discrimination or undue barriers.

Article 6: Right to Privacy The privacy and personal space of homeless individuals shall be respected and protected, including their personal belongings.

Article 7: Right to Social Services Homeless individuals have the right to access social services, including support for employment, education, and reintegration into society.

Article 8: Right to Legal Protection Every homeless individual has the right to legal protection and access to justice, including protection from violence, harassment, and exploitation.

Article 9: Right to Participation in Decision-Making Homeless individuals have the right to participate in decision-making processes that affect their lives, including policies and programs designed to address homelessness.

Article 10: Right to Education and Information Every homeless individual has the right to education and access to information that can help them improve their situation and exercise their rights.

Article 11: Right to Work Homeless individuals have the right to work and to just and favorable conditions of work without discrimination based on their housing status.

Article 12: Right to Family Life Every homeless individual has the right to family life, including the right to live with their family members and access family support services.

Article 13: Right to Freedom from Forced Religious Activities Homeless individuals have the right to freedom from coercion to participate in religious activities or adopt religious beliefs as a condition for receiving services or assistance.

Article 14: Duty to Promote Acceptance and Non-Discrimination States and societies have a duty to promote acceptance and inclusion of homeless individuals and to take steps to combat prejudice, stereotypes, and discrimination against them.

Article 15: Implementation and Monitoring Mechanisms shall be established for the implementation and monitoring of these rights and for holding states and individuals accountable for violations.

Article 16: Right to Advocacy and Representation Homeless individuals have the right to advocacy and representation to ensure their voices are heard and their rights are upheld.