Article 12 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights protects the right to privacy and from arbitrary interference. “Everyone has respect for his privacy, family, home and correspondence.” Everyone has the right to hold their own personal matters confidential. It is, therefore, postulated that everybody has the right to be protected by the law from such interference or attacks. This right shall be profound in a world where personal information may be exposed and misused; the ability to live without unwarranted scrutiny or intrusion is ensured. Article 12 strikes a balance between individual rights and societal interests, which once again strengthens the tenet that respect for privacy forms the cornerstone of human dignity and liberty. Essentially, this article lends validation to the premise that private space and home life should not be allowed to be unjustifiably penetrated, which goes a long way in enhancing the sense of security and well-being in society as a whole.
Written by: Nabeela Mohiud-din