Even though the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is 60 years old, the rights it enumerates remain out of reach in many nations. When the declaration was adopted, the world was still reeling from the magnitude of the Nazi atrocities, the full scope of which did not come to light until after World War II.

Hiding has been an effective strategy for other abusers. Despite widespread support for the declaration, violations continue around the world in repressive regimes that, until recently, were able to hide the true extent of their crimes. But in the age of new media, hiding is getting a lot more difficult.

The YouTube blog “Broadcasting Ourselves” cites how organizations are using video to document human rights abuses, raise awareness and promote change.

“Video continues to serve as a powerful tool to expose incidents that threaten the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. And while it may be impossible to end human rights abuses everywhere, we can be grateful that there are citizens armed with cameras who help bring these abuses to light,” blogs Ramya R. of YouTube Nonprofits & Activism group.

But it’s not all about video. A question posted today on WITNESS underscores the power of pictures by asking the question “What Image Opened Your Eyes to Human Rights.?”

Other new media giving voice to the previously voiceless include cell phones, blogging and social networking.

Ultimately, 21st-century technology might be the key to realizing a promise six decades old and making the Universal Declaration truly universal. Your thoughts?