Question

The principle of the presumption of innocence until proven guilty is embodied under which article of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)?

• A. Article 20
• B. Article 9
• C. Article 11
• D. Article 21

Hint:

Important UDHR Articles: align* Article 9 & Protection against arbitrary arrest
Article 10 & Fair hearing
Article 11 & Presumption of innocence align*

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: One of the most fundamental principles of criminal justice is that every accused person is presumed innocent until guilt is established through a fair legal process. This principle protects individuals from arbitrary punishment and ensures fairness in criminal proceedings.

Step 1: Understand the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The UDHR was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 10 December 1948. It contains fundamental human rights standards recognized globally.

Step 2: Examine the relevant articles.

• Article 9 protects individuals against arbitrary arrest, detention, or exile.

• Article 10 guarantees a fair and public hearing.

• Article 11 establishes the presumption of innocence.

• Article 20 protects freedom of assembly and association.

• Article 21 relates to participation in government.

Step 3: Read the specific provision. Article 11(1) states that every person charged with a penal offence has the right to be presumed innocent until proved guilty according to law in a public trial with all necessary guarantees for defence.

Step 4: Match the principle. Since the question asks specifically about the presumption of innocence, the correct answer is Article 11. Therefore, the correct answer is

(C) Article 11.