Freedom from a holistic approach

 Freedom from Want – a holistic approach 



Freedom from want is a foundational concept in the vision of human dignity and global justice. It was first articulated by U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt in his historic “Four Freedoms” speech delivered in 1941. This idea refers to the right of every human being to have access to the basic necessities of life—food, clean water, shelter, education, healthcare, and employment. It is the freedom that ensures no person should suffer from poverty, hunger, or deprivation in a world of abundant resources and technological advancement.


Freedom from want extends beyond mere survival. It embodies the idea that all people should have the opportunity to live with a reasonable standard of living, with the ability to improve their lives through access to knowledge, skills, and resources. In other words, it affirms economic and social rights alongside civil and political rights. A person who is constantly struggling to meet their basic needs cannot fully participate in society or enjoy other fundamental freedoms like freedom of expression, association, or movement.


This freedom also highlights the importance of economic justice and equitable development. It calls for a system where wealth is not concentrated in the hands of a few while millions live in destitution. It urges governments to create inclusive policies that provide social security, ensure fair wages, protect workers, and invest in public services. At the same time, it calls for international cooperation to reduce global inequalities, support sustainable development, and ensure that resources are shared more fairly among nations.


Freedom from want is central to many international efforts and agreements, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), especially Article 25, which guarantees the right to an adequate standard of living. It also forms the moral basis for the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to end poverty and hunger, promote health, education, and decent work for all.


In modern times, the relevance of this freedom has only grown. Despite progress, millions of people still face extreme poverty, food insecurity, and inadequate healthcare. Climate change, pandemics, economic crises, and wars continue to deepen vulnerabilities and reverse development gains. In this context, freedom from want remains not only a humanitarian goal but a precondition for peace, stability, and the flourishing of democratic societies.


In conclusion, freedom from want is about building a world where no one is left behind, where every person is treated with dignity, and where economic security allows individuals to live free, productive, and fulfilling lives. It is a moral imperative and a global responsibility to strive for a future where this freedom becomes a reality for all.


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