Those with power have to get rights right in 2026

Lucy reflects on what’s needed to progress rights in Scotland.

Every year, on 10^th December, people around the globe observe Human Rights Day (HRD). This year’s theme is ‘Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials’. It’s a powerful reminder from the UN that even in “this period of turbulence and unpredictability, where many feel a growing sense of insecurity, disaffection and alienation”, human rights values “remain a winning proposition for humanity.”

As I noted in my 2023 HRD opinion, human rights are for everyone, every day, but it’s often our everyday rights that are most at risk – whether it’s timely access to appropriate care, a decent income, or a safe, warm home.

I’m therefore struck by how relevant the 2026 HRD theme is for Scotland, particularly given alarming rises in inequality, and sustained action by people and organisations – like the ALLIANCE and our members – who are trying to do something about it.

Given our aims and strategic focus, the everyday rights of disabled people, people with long term conditions and unpaid carers are a major ALLIANCE focus. We have spent many years working hard to help defend the rights we already have, and progress rights-related ambitions like incorporation and SNAP 2.

To mark HRD 2026, along with the Human Rights Consortium Scotland we’re hosting a ‘Being Human’ event called ‘Getting it Right in 2026′. With insight from a panel of experts, we’ll be looking ahead to the Scottish Parliament elections and ensuring human rights are at the forefront. Because there’s a lot to be done.

As a passionate human rights defender, my Christmas wish this year is that the next Scottish Government, MSPs across all political parties, and other decision makers like local authorities, choose to use their power to better respect, protect and fulfil everyone’s rights in Scotland.

Because it IS a choice. They can choose to adopt a robust Scottish Human Rights Act, make meaningful progress on human rights budgeting, and support the implementation of a national action plan that countless people across the country spent years developing.  

This might seem like pie in the sky, but as the UN puts it so well: our human rights are positive, essential and – most importantly – attainable. I think anticipating that those with the power to do so will progress our everyday rights is the very least we should expect.

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