Festivities and debates are being held around the world to celebrate International Human Rights Day.

The events mark the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which was adopted by the United Nations on 10 December 1948 and has since been used by many countries as a basis for civil rights legislation.

In The Hague, demonstrators will march from the Peace Palace, which is home to a number of international judicial institutions, to the parliament building. In the northern city of Leeuwarden, young residents will take part in a Walk of Rights, which is also being held in 23 other countries.

Amnesty International has seized the opportunity to draw attention to Nigeria, where many human rights violations are reportedly linked to oil exploration in the Niger Delta. Torchlight processions will be held in several locations in Nigeria.

Photo: Amnesty International