Community Work, Human Rights, and the Settlement and Neighbourhood Centre Movement

Ken Burns’ 2014 documentary series, “The Roosevelts: An Intimate History,” offers a captivating exploration of a family whose name has resonated through U.S. and global history for decades. The final episode focuses on one of my personal heroes, Eleanor Roosevelt. Her tireless work as a social justice activist, independent of her marriage to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, has always been an inspiration to me.

Eleanor Roosevelt’s leadership in chairing the U.N. Commission on Human Rights and drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was a monumental achievement for global civilisation. Yet, as foundational and inspiring as this document is, its promise remains unfulfilled. Some covenants tied to it remain unsigned by certain nations, leaving its vision incomplete.

My passion for human rights began early, sparked by learning about the U.N. in school and Australia’s proud role in its establishment. The concept of social justice has been a guiding principle throughout my professional and political life, shaping my work for decades.

This year marks two significant milestones: the U.N.’s 80th anniversary and the 100th anniversary of the International Federation of Settlement Houses and Neighbourhood Centres (IFS), celebrated in London. The histories of these two organisations are deeply intertwined. Jane Addams, a peace and social justice activist, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1931 for her pioneering work in the settlement movement. IFS, as a global movement for social justice, has long been recognised as a “super” NGO by the U.N. Today, IFS’s commitment to the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals and its advocacy for democracy and social justice solidify its authority and legitimacy as a global voice.

However, my growing distress over the past few years stems from the alarming escalation of human rights violations by governments, individuals, and even some so-called NGOs. This is becoming a supercritical global crisis.

Armed conflicts in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East showcase the most grotesque violations of human rights—mass violence, murder, and killings. Waves of racism, religious persecution, and mass incarceration are surging. Discrimination based on gender, age, indigeneity, and sexuality only deepens these injustices.

These issues are not abstract; they manifest in the very communities where our movement’s centres operate. Every day, we confront the impacts of these violations at the grassroots level. Through education, fostering understanding, and promoting tolerance, we work to empower communities toward inclusive self-determination. Yet,

we cannot ignore the collective and individual trauma caused by these ongoing abuses. The growing anxiety within our shared humanity is palpable.

I firmly believe that IFS has a fundamental responsibility to speak out against this crisis. We must do so intentionally and visibly, on behalf of our members, partners, and the communities we serve.

Volker Türk, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, recently stated in Geneva: “History has shown time and again that no one is safe when human rights are under attack.” His words resonate deeply. Defending and promoting human rights is not just a principle of our movement—it is a daily priority for me and my colleagues at all levels, from local to national and international.

IFS must amplify High Commissioner Türk’s urgent message. We must highlight it across all our media, conversations, and practices. I encourage everyone to read his complete statement, which underscores the critical need to safeguard 80 years of progress on freedom, equality, and justice. Download and share the statement here.

Together, we can continue to champion human rights and social justice, ensuring that these principles remain at the heart of our work.

Paul Sekfy JP Vice President, IFS (International Federation of Settlement Houses and Neighbourhood Centres) Vice President, ANHCA (National Neighbourhood Centres) Treasurer, LCSA (NSW Neighbourhood Centres) Treasurer, VCHI (Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre)