Meaning: The quote "The predominant yardstick of your government is not human rights but national interests" by Breyten Breytenbach, a South African writer and painter, reflects a critical view of the prioritization of national interests over human rights by governments. In this quote, Breytenbach suggests that governments often prioritize their own interests, such as economic, political, or security concerns, over the protection and promotion of human rights. This quote is thought-provoking and raises important questions about the balance between national interests and human rights in the governance of countries around the world.

Breyten Breytenbach, born in 1939, has been an outspoken critic of the apartheid regime in South Africa and has used his writing to address social and political issues. His experiences as an anti-apartheid activist and his time spent in prison for his involvement in resistance activities have deeply influenced his perspectives on governance, human rights, and the role of the individual within society. As a result, his insights into the relationship between government, human rights, and national interests carry significant weight and relevance.

The quote challenges the notion that governments consistently prioritize the protection of human rights in their decision-making processes. Instead, Breytenbach suggests that national interests, which may encompass economic growth, political stability, or security concerns, often take precedence over the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals. This assertion raises important questions about the ethical and moral responsibilities of governments in balancing their pursuit of national interests with their obligation to safeguard the rights and dignity of their citizens.

In many cases, the pursuit of national interests by governments has led to human rights violations, including restrictions on freedom of speech, political repression, discrimination, and even violence against marginalized groups. Breytenbach's quote highlights the tension between the pursuit of national goals and the protection of individual rights, calling into question the ethical implications of prioritizing national interests at the expense of human rights.

Moreover, the quote invites reflection on the role of citizens in holding their governments accountable for upholding human rights standards. It underscores the importance of civic engagement, activism, and advocacy in challenging governments to prioritize human rights considerations in their policies and actions. Breytenbach's quote serves as a reminder that the protection of human rights is not only a governmental responsibility but also a collective endeavor that requires the active participation of individuals and civil society organizations.

In the international arena, the quote also resonates with discussions about the conduct of states in the global community. It prompts consideration of how national interests and power dynamics among states can influence their attitudes and actions toward human rights issues on a global scale. Breytenbach's quote underscores the need for international cooperation and solidarity to address human rights violations and hold governments accountable for their actions, regardless of their national interests.

Ultimately, Breyten Breytenbach's quote challenges us to critically examine the relationship between government, human rights, and national interests. It reminds us that the protection of human rights should not be overshadowed by the pursuit of national goals and that governments have a fundamental obligation to uphold the rights and dignity of all individuals within their jurisdiction. The quote encourages us to advocate for a more balanced and ethical approach to governance that places human rights at the forefront of decision-making processes, both domestically and internationally.