Inalienables

Inalienables are rights that are considered to be inherent to all human beings, regardless of nationality, sex, national or ethnic origin, color, religion, language, or any other status. The concept of inalienable rights is central to many modern legal systems and ethical frameworks, particularly those influenced by natural law traditions. The idea is that these rights are not granted by governments or societies, but rather exist prior to and independently of them.

The most famous articulation of inalienable rights comes from the United States Declaration of Independence, which states that all men are created equal and are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. These rights are considered "unalienable" because they cannot be taken away, surrendered, or transferred.

Philosophically, the concept of inalienable rights suggests a basis for universal human rights that transcend cultural and political differences. They serve as a standard against which the actions of governments and individuals can be judged. While the specific enumeration of inalienable rights may vary in different philosophical and legal contexts, the core idea remains that certain fundamental entitlements are intrinsic to human existence and must be protected. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations, reflects this principle by outlining a broad range of rights considered fundamental to all people.