Simply put, freedom and dignity are basic human rights. Philosophers, clergy and even individuals have their own definitions of dignity and freedom. However, in legal and practical terms, these ideals can be measured by a set of international standards called “human rights.”
Human rights – the right to think and speak freely, to vote, to receive a basic education, and to be free from torture or enslavement, among others – are innate: People are born with these rights, and always have them, simply because they are human. Individuals retain these rights even if those in power do not recognize or enforce them.