For us democracy is a question of human dignity. And human dignity is political freedom.
Olof PalmeRead
For us democracy is a question of human dignity. And human dignity is political freedom, the right to freely express opinion and the right to be allowed to criticise and form opinions. Human dignity is the right to health, work, education and social welfare. Human dignity is the right and the practical possibility to shape the future with others. These rights, the rights of democracy, are not reserved for a select group within society, they are the rights of all the people.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Democracy encompasses human dignity through rights like free expression, health, and education.
This quote by Olof Palme emphasizes that democracy is fundamentally about ensuring human dignity. It highlights that essential rights such as freedom of expression, access to health, work, education, and the ability to participate in shaping society are universal and should be accessible to all individuals, not just a privileged few. The essence of democracy is rooted in its commitment to uphold these rights and empower every person within the community.
Themes
DemocracyHuman DignityFreedomRightsExpression
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech advocating for human rights.
More from Olof Palme
All quotes →We say yes to the society of solidarity and democracy where free people together, in mutual respect and under mutual responsibility, shape a life where everyone has equal opportunities and equal value.
Olof PalmeRead
Similar quotes
It is not freedom from conditions, but it is freedom to take a stand toward the conditions.
Viktor E. FranklRead
I have never thought, for my part, that man's freedom consists in his being able to do whatever he wills, but that he should not, by any human power, be forced to do what is against his will.
Jean-Jacques RousseauRead
It is by the goodness of God that in our country we have those three unspeakably precious things: freedom of speech, freedom of conscience, and the prudence never to practice either of them.
Mark TwainRead
No protracted war can fail to endanger the freedom of a democratic country.
Alexis De TocquevilleRead
If you have a sense of purpose and a sense of direction, I believe people will follow you. Democracy isn't just about deducing what the people want. Democracy is leading the people as well.
Margaret ThatcherRead
I have walked that long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter; I have made missteps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb. I have taken a moment here to rest, to steal a view of the glorious vista that surrounds me, to look back on the distance I have come. But I can only rest for a moment, for with freedom come responsibilities, and I dare not linger, for my long walk is not ended.
Nelson MandelaRead