Tribute to René Cassin: Nice Celebrates Human Rights

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UNITED KINGDOM - OCTOBER 31: The French government in exile in London, from left to right: War minister Andre DIETHELM, Vice-Admiral Emile MUSELIER, General DE GAULLE, Vice president of the State Council Rene CASSIN, PLEVEN and Admiral AUBOYNEAU observe a minute of silence at the request of General DE GAULLE following executions of French hostages in Nantes and Bordeaux. This is a part of the French government who at the time of the armistice and the nomination of PETAIN as head of state refused to capitulate and went into exile in North Africa and then London. (Photo by Keystone-France/Gamma-Keystone via Getty Images)

The city of Nice is organizing a week of events in honor of the 76th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. From December 10 to 17, educational activities and conferences will highlight the legacy of René Cassin.

René Cassin, born in Paris, made his mark on history by drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1968, and he also served as vice-president of the Council of State and was a key player in the creation of UNESCO. To pay tribute to him, the city of Nice is offering a week of educational and commemorative activities, combining memory with the transmission of universal values.

This Tuesday, December 10, fifth-grade students from René Cassin School will travel to Paris. They will lay a wreath on René Cassin’s tomb at the Pantheon, visit the Council of State, and the headquarters of UNESCO. This trip will be an opportunity to discover the places where he worked for Human Rights. The students will be accompanied by Christian Estrosi, mayor of Nice, and other elected officials.

Conferences and Sharing Experiences

On Thursday, December 12, the Mediterranean University Center will host a series of conferences. Academics will explore the many facets of René Cassin. Teachers or lecturers will recount his life during the journey. Xavier Latour will discuss his role at the Council of State and Julien Broch will analyze his actions during the war between the two Frances. Modern History professor Pierre-Yves Beaurepaire will trace the roots of Human Rights back to the Enlightenment.

Finally, on Tuesday, December 17, the students who participated in the trip to Paris will share their experiences with their peers. This event, organized at René Cassin School, will extend the reflection on civic engagement and the importance of fundamental rights.