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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.
Olof Palme
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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.

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For us democracy is a question of human dignity. And human dignity is political freedom.
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