English Reading Practice

Human Right Number 28:
A Fair and Free World

1. Watch the video at the top of the page.

2. Read the story "A Fair and Free World" just below it.

3. Do the exercise at the bottom of the page.

Here is the A Fair and Free World video. You can watch it in your own language at www.youthforhumanrights.org. (Simply click the word "language" at the top of their homepage.)



The Universal Declaration of Human Rights describes 30 basic rights that each person has, simply because he or she is human.

This is human right number 28 (the simplified version):

"28. A Fair and Free World. There must be proper order so we can all enjoy rights and freedoms in our own country and all over the world."

Now read the short story about this important human right.

A Fair and Free World 

Robert listens as his parents talk about war. They say that war is on its way.

Robert is excited. A war in his country means lots of action and activity! A war is also good for business.

Later that day, Robert runs into his good friend Lamar.

"Hey Lamar!" Robert says, "What do you think buddy? War is on its way! These are exciting times!"

Lamar looks surprised. "War is not exciting, Robert. War is horrible."

"Well, sure, it is not fun, but our country is sure to win. And war is great for business. My company makes lots of money from war."

Lamar sighs. "Robert, your company makes money at first, but soon, the entire economy shuts down. People cannot work. Everyone lives in fear. People die. There is nothing good about war. No one really wins."

Robert pauses, "No one really wins? Is that what you think?"

Lamar answers, "I know. It is not like it is on TV or in a movie. War destroys cities and countries. War kills people we love. We all have the right to live in a world with proper order, to enjoy the rights and freedoms in our country. War destroys that right. War makes everything worse."

Robert thinks for a minute. Then he says, "Yes. I guess you are right. Sorry about that Lamar. Let's hope for peace instead."

"Yes," Lamar agrees, "But hoping is not enough. We all have the responsibility to make it happen."

And now, practice:

Exercise 01

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