In the exhibition ‘Universal Human Rights’, Kazerne Dossin explores all dimensions of human rights. What are the types of rights? What is their origin? Who are they important for? From 10 February all visitors can learn about their rights in a threefold exhibition brimming with interesting facts and inspiring pioneers, but also complex dilemmas and pressing current affairs. There are tailor-made interactive trails especially for children and young people.
Content
The exhibition consists of three parts and commences with the universal shock caused by WWII and the concentration camps. Many countries worldwide joined hands and ensured that on 10 December 1948 the Universal Declaration of Human Rights became a fact. Its elaboration receives a lot of attention.
The organizers of the exhibition could build on a solid foundation. Relevant examples and (art) objects dating from ancient legislations and religions were unearthed. Philosophy and human nature were consulted as well.
In the third part we see inspiring pioneers, successful activists from past and present times despite all opposition and violations. Some well-known Belgian personalities speak about their personal struggle and share their dilemmas.
Kazerne Dossin & ‘Universal Human Rights’
Kazerne Dossin is a museum, memorial and research centre dedicated to the Holocaust and human rights. From this mission the topic of human rights became the focal point for the temporary exhibition in 2022.
Tomas Baum: “Referring to the history of the Dossin Barracks we are constantly looking for ways of strengthening coexistence today. In this new and original exhibition on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights we focus on its history, its ambition and its future. As a source of inspiration – or even contestation – it is a subject that concerns everyone, without distinction.”
International Input
Kazerne Dossin contacted all countries that were represented in the editorial committee of the Declaration with the request to lend them a relevant object. The embassies of France, the United Kingdom, the United States and Chile came with some special items, thus providing an additional international input to the exhibition.
From Young to Old Visitors, Individuals or (School) Groups
Nosy parkers, doers, listeners and thinkers will all get their money’s worth thanks to the diverse line-up. The exhibition has offerings for a broad range of visitors. For children from the age of nine a special trail was developed with stops at the different letters of ‘Universal’. They may turn out to be ambassadors for human rights. The youth trail provides challenges and stimulates activism.
Guides are showing both individual visitors and groups around. Primary and secondary schools can count on interactive tours. Lectures, films and workshops complete the programme.