The culture and ethical standards of any country’s population have an undeniable influence on its structure and rules. In particular, depending on various historical events and regulations adopted by people, there is a different attitude towards human rights. In the modern world, this problem is quite acute because people feel more strongly worthy of respect and support from the government. However, according to Benjamin (2010), “human rights violations, especially against women and children, are more prevalent” (p. 201). In various countries, related issues are regulated in different ways, causing controversy and misunderstanding. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the problem of human rights in China and the USA.
The USA is considered one of the most developed countries in the world. This applies to the spheres of science, technology, culture, and other areas. In particular, it is essential to note the high level of public awareness. For many years, the population of America was created from representatives of different countries. People understand that each of them is unique; therefore, they must live in an environment of mutual respect. Indeed, “cultural and moral diversity is a fact and a positive asset insofar as cultures can pool their ideas, resources, and strategies in order to address common or shared problems” (Twiss, 2011, p. 206). In addition, the history of America is associated with the relentless struggle for independence. Each of these reasons prompts the USA authorities to pay attention to human rights; thus, many citizens feel valued and protected. They know that they can seek support from the government, so they are not afraid to defend their opinion. Undoubtedly, this process requires additions, but the United States is already a good example in this area.
The situation in China can be called diametrically opposite, despite the relatively high level of development. First, it is essential to note that the East’s culture is radically different from the Western. It is particularly closely associated with Eastern religions, many of which are distinguished by cruelty. In addition, China is subject to the enormous influence of the political processes of the past associated with communism (Goodhart, 2016). As a result, the country has practically no freedom of speech and expression. Chinese citizens must strictly follow the established rules, and this system has developed so long ago that most of them do not even have thoughts of resistance. However, an outside perspective reveals the lack of human rights in this country and the need to fight for independence.
The main right violated because of cultural differences is the right to the personal dignity. In other words, some people are considered more valuable only because of their culture. These differences also violate the right to work and freedom of work, since hiring decisions are often made in favor of people of familiar culture. To improve the situation in both countries, an integrated approach is needed. First, it must be provided by the governments that should enact laws and regulations that support fundamental human rights. The main idea is that the rulers themselves support and observe these rights, respecting every citizen (De Schutter, 2012). Non-governmental organizations can also contribute to the development of human rights. In this matter, the policy of companies concerning employees plays a critical role. For example, now, one can often face discrimination based on race or gender in the workplace (Colella & King, 2018). If employers fight this, then people will feel much more secure and free.
Global government can do much more than NGOs to address human rights issues. They can manage these processes through laws, courts, and large-scale social actions. However, a great responsibility for the development of human rights lies with the citizens themselves. They must cultivate relationships based on mutual respect and assistance. This will help them be confident that they can receive support in any difficult situation, even regardless of the authorities. Thus, people will become more free and secure, contributing to the harmonious development of society.
References
Benjamin, D. O. (2010). Rethinking nonintervention: The challenge of the UN charter and protecting the dispossessed. Public Integrity, 12(3), 201-218.
Colella, A., & King, E. D. (2018). The Oxford handbook of workplace discrimination. Oxford University Press.
De Schutter, O. (2012). The role of human rights in shaping international regulatory regimes. Social Research, 79(4), 785-818.
Goodhart, M. E. (2016). Human rights: Politics and Practice. Oxford University Press.
Twiss, S. B. (2011). Global ethics and human rights: A reflection. Journal of Religious Ethics, 39(2), 204-222.