Meaning: The quote "As a consequence of these hesitations and of the vague character of such innovations, the Commission on Human Rights itself had doubts from the beginning about its role and its functions in general" by Rene Cassin Judge reflects the initial uncertainties and challenges faced by the Commission on Human Rights in defining its purpose and responsibilities. To provide a comprehensive understanding of the quote, it is essential to delve into the historical context and significance of the Commission on Human Rights, as well as the factors that contributed to the hesitations and doubts expressed by Rene Cassin.

The Commission on Human Rights was established by the United Nations in 1946, with the primary objective of promoting and protecting human rights globally. The creation of the Commission was a response to the atrocities witnessed during World War II, and it represented a significant step towards formalizing the international commitment to upholding human rights. However, the process of defining the Commission's precise role and functions was not without challenges.

Rene Cassin, a prominent figure in the field of human rights and a key architect of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, played a crucial role in shaping the Commission's early deliberations. His quote underscores the hesitations and uncertainties that surrounded the Commission's efforts to navigate the "vague character of such innovations," referring to the unprecedented nature of establishing a global body dedicated to human rights.

One of the primary reasons behind the doubts expressed by Cassin and other members of the Commission on Human Rights was the complexity of addressing human rights issues on a global scale. The diverse cultural, political, and legal contexts across different countries posed significant challenges in formulating universally applicable human rights standards. The Commission grappled with the task of reconciling these differences while striving to uphold the principles of equality, dignity, and justice for all individuals.

Moreover, the evolving nature of human rights discourse at the time further contributed to the uncertainties surrounding the Commission's role. The post-World War II era witnessed a growing recognition of the interconnectedness of human rights with other areas such as development, peace, and security. This interconnectedness added layers of complexity to the Commission's mandate, as it sought to address not only civil and political rights but also economic, social, and cultural rights.

In addition to these external challenges, the internal dynamics and institutional framework of the Commission on Human Rights also gave rise to doubts about its role and functions. The diverse composition of the Commission, with representatives from various member states, led to differing perspectives on the prioritization and implementation of human rights initiatives. The need to navigate these divergent viewpoints while maintaining a cohesive and effective approach to human rights advocacy posed a formidable challenge for the Commission.

Despite these hesitations and doubts, it is important to acknowledge that the Commission on Human Rights made significant strides in its efforts to promote and protect human rights. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948 under the leadership of Rene Cassin, stands as a testament to the Commission's commitment to articulating a common standard of achievement for all peoples and nations. This foundational document continues to serve as a guiding framework for the protection of human rights globally.

In conclusion, Rene Cassin's quote reflects the complexities and uncertainties that characterized the early years of the Commission on Human Rights. The challenges stemming from the unprecedented nature of its mandate, the evolving human rights discourse, and the diverse composition of the Commission all contributed to the hesitations and doubts expressed by Cassin and others. However, despite these initial challenges, the Commission's enduring legacy and its contributions to the advancement of human rights underscore the importance of persevering in the face of uncertainty and embracing the ongoing evolution of human rights advocacy.