For Immediate Release
December 12, 2003

Global Message

In proclaiming Human Rights Day (Dec. 10, 2003), Bill of Rights Day (Dec. 15, 2003), and Human Rights Week, (beginning Dec. 10, 2003), President Bush noted:

• America's founders dedicated this country to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. During Human Rights Day, Bill of Rights Day, and Human Rights Week, we recognize the advances we have made expanding freedom, democracy, and individual rights in this country and around the world.

• America has helped bring liberty to Afghanistan and Iraq. In countries like Belarus, Cuba, and Zimbabwe, we continue to stand with those who struggle for democracy.

• We will continue to call on Burma's ruling junta to release political prisoners and engage in an inclusive dialogue with the democratic opposition to bring democracy to Burma.

• We also look forward to the day when the men and women of North Korea can live in a free society.

• Freedom is the right of mankind and the future of every nation. It is not America's gift to the world; it is God's gift to every man and woman who lives in this world.