Meaning: The quote provided refers to the drafting and adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), a milestone document in the history of human rights. The process of creating the UDHR was indeed a remarkable feat, as it involved the collaboration of representatives from various countries and backgrounds to establish a set of fundamental rights and freedoms that should be universally protected. The quote highlights the relatively short timeframe within which the first draft of the declaration was prepared and the extensive discussions that ensued before its final adoption.

The drafting of the UDHR began in 1946, in the aftermath of World War II, with the establishment of the United Nations Commission on Human Rights. The commission, chaired by Eleanor Roosevelt, was tasked with creating an international bill of rights that would outline the rights and freedoms to which all individuals are entitled. The drafting committee included representatives from different cultural, legal, and political backgrounds, reflecting the diverse perspectives that would contribute to the formulation of the declaration.

Over the course of less than eighteen months, the committee worked diligently to prepare the first draft of the UDHR, which was then presented to the United Nations General Assembly. The document underwent extensive deliberation and debate during one hundred sessions, with participants engaging in impassioned discussions about the content and wording of the articles. This process reflects the commitment to thorough consideration and inclusivity in capturing the essence of universal human rights.

The final version of the UDHR, consisting of thirty articles, was adopted by the General Assembly on December 10, 1948. The adoption of the declaration marked a significant achievement in the promotion of human rights, as it set forth a comprehensive framework for the protection of individual rights and freedoms, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, religion, or other distinguishing factors.

The UDHR encompasses a wide range of rights, including civil and political rights, such as the right to life, liberty, and security, as well as economic, social, and cultural rights, such as the right to work, education, and an adequate standard of living. It also addresses the principles of non-discrimination, equality before the law, and the right to participate in the cultural, political, and social life of one's community.

Rene Cassin, the French jurist and judge referenced in the quote, played a crucial role in the drafting of the UDHR. He was instrumental in shaping the content of the declaration and advocating for the inclusion of key principles and protections. Cassin's expertise in international law and his commitment to human rights made him a prominent figure in the development of the UDHR, and his contributions have left a lasting legacy in the field of human rights.

In conclusion, the quote captures the remarkable journey of the UDHR from its initial drafting to its eventual adoption, emphasizing the dedication, collaboration, and deliberation that went into creating a document that continues to serve as a beacon for the protection of human rights worldwide.