Meaning: This quote refers to the establishment of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. The quote reflects on the significance of this document, highlighting it as a remarkable and exceptional effort in the area of human rights. The author, Rene Cassin, who was a key figure in the drafting of the UDHR, emphasizes the broad and precise mandate given by the General Assembly to create a comprehensive charter of human rights, addressing the perceived shortcomings of the San Francisco Conference in 1945, which did not prioritize the drafting of such a document.

The San Francisco Conference, also known as the United Nations Conference on International Organization, took place in 1945 and was primarily focused on the establishment of the United Nations. While the conference laid the foundation for the UN, it did not prioritize the creation of a specific charter or declaration focused solely on human rights. This perceived gap in the conference's outcomes prompted the General Assembly to take decisive action in 1946, as referenced in the quote, by tasking a specific body with the preparation of a comprehensive Charter of Human Rights.

The result of this mandate was the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948. The UDHR represents a milestone in the global recognition and protection of human rights. It consists of 30 articles that outline fundamental human rights and freedoms to be universally protected and upheld. These rights include civil and political rights, economic, social, and cultural rights, as well as the rights of individuals belonging to minority groups.

Rene Cassin, a French jurist and judge, played a pivotal role in the drafting of the UDHR. His reference to the "courage" required to draw up the Charter of Human Rights acknowledges the challenges and complexities involved in addressing human rights on a global scale. The quote signifies the significance of the UDHR as a groundbreaking and courageous endeavor that aimed to enshrine fundamental rights for all individuals, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity, religion, or any other characteristic.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the urgency associated with the preparation of the UDHR. The language used by Cassin suggests a sense of immediacy and determination to ensure that the rights and freedoms outlined in the declaration were established without delay. This sense of urgency reflects the post-World War II era, during which the international community sought to prevent the recurrence of widespread human rights abuses and atrocities that had occurred during the war.

In conclusion, Rene Cassin's quote highlights the exceptional nature of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the significant mandate provided by the General Assembly to create a comprehensive charter of human rights. The UDHR stands as a testament to the collective commitment of the international community to uphold and protect the inherent dignity and rights of all individuals, making it a foundational document in the field of human rights law and a beacon of hope for a more just and equitable world.