Human Rights Day: why this day matters to RED NOSES

Health and wellbeing are human rights

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations in 1948, states in Article 25 that everyone has the right to a standard of living that supports their health and wellbeing.

At RED NOSES, we see every day how much emotional health matters. Laughter, creativity, play and human connection can help reduce stress, support healing, and strengthen resilience. Our healthcare clowns accompany children in hospitals, older citizens, children with disabilities, and families in crisis situations, bringing light into moments that are often heavy.

When we bring humour to hospital rooms or displacement camps, we help strengthen a person’s sense of dignity and hope. And this is deeply connected to the right to health.

Everyone has the right to enjoy the arts*

At RED NOSES, art is at the heart of our work. Clowning is a unique art form. Uplifting, human, and universally understood. By bringing artistic experiences into hospitals, care homes, and crisis settings, we make sure people can enjoy arts and culture even in challenging times.

This is especially important for those who often have limited access to cultural life: patients, older adults, children with long-term illnesses, or people displaced by conflict. Art belongs to everyone, no one should be excluded from the joy and connection that art brings.

A day to renew our commitment

Human Rights Day is a moment for us to reflect on the world we want to help create:

• A world where everyone’s physical and emotional wellbeing is valued.
• A world where humour, creativity, and culture are recognised as part of basic human needs.
• A world where no one is left behind - not in hospitals, not in care homes, not in crisis situations.

RED NOSES International will continue to bring joy and emotional support to people who need it most, and to advocate for the importance of arts, culture, and humour in promoting wellbeing.

If you wish, take a moment to re-watch our video exploring the connection between humour and human rights

* The UDHR also protects cultural participation. Article 27 states that everyone has the right “to enjoy the arts and to share in scientific advancement and its benefits.”