Psychology and Human Rights

Abstract

Abstract. In 2020, the United Nations celebrated its 75th anniversary. The celebration marked the founding of the UN Charter and reminded the world that this intergovernmental organization, created in the aftermath of World War II, was envisioned as an institution to safeguard humanity, and extend the protection and promotion of human rights, peace and security, the rule of law, and development. The anniversary also came against the backdrop of a world teetering on the brink of disaster – the COVID-19 pandemic. The UN Secretary-General described the COVID-19 pandemic as a global crisis that threatened to reverse decades of progress made in eradicating poverty, thereby exacerbating inequality and the progress made toward the Sustainable Development Goals. What began as a public health crisis quickly morphed into an economic, health, and human rights disaster. For many individuals and communities already lacking access to resources, the pandemic disproportionally impacted their right to live, their right to health and access to healthcare, and challenged their freedom to move around safely. As we continue to confront the challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, we are reminded of the role psychology can play in helping us understand how our attitudes and behaviors shape our responses and support the work of rebuilding a more equitable society shaped through the lens of human rights. This paper aimed to illustrate the contributions of psychological science during the current pandemic and envision the field's future impacts to promote human rights and the UN's 2030 global agenda on sustainable development.