A recent high-level symposium at the United Nations hosted by Japan and other member states emphasized "human security," tracing the framework's evolution through decades of U.N. efforts to cope with humanitarian and environmental crises around the world.
The event, which took place on Feb. 28 at the U.N. headquarters, coincided with the 25th anniversary since human security as a paradigm for state decision-making first appeared in a landmark United Nations Development Program report. It also marked the 20th anniversary of the Japan-led effort to establish a trust fund supporting a "people-centered approach" when providing for those in need.
Since that time, the concept has grown and been defined in greater detail, including in a 2012 General Assembly resolution describing it as "the right of people to live in freedom and dignity, free from poverty and despair."