" We are not living in the same world we were immediately after the Cold War, when there seemed to be a greater belief in the universality of human rights and there was enough prosperity to make us question why we had not committed more resources to upholding the values we claimed to hold most dear. "
- Uzodinma Iweala

In today’s world, the concept of universal human rights seems less prominent compared to what it was immediately after the Cold War era. During that period, there was a strong belief among nations and individuals that human rights were universally applicable, regardless of political or cultural differences. The economic prosperity experienced then also raised questions about why more resources weren’t dedicated to upholding these values.

The quote delves deeper into how global dynamics have shifted over time. While the immediate post-Cold War period was marked by a collective optimism and shared commitment to human rights, current circumstances reflect a different reality. Economic challenges and geopolitical tensions now often overshadow the pursuit of universal values. The quote suggests that despite economic growth in many parts of the world, there has been a growing skepticism about the effectiveness and sincerity of efforts to promote these values globally. This shift indicates a complex interplay between global politics, economics, and societal priorities.

Uzodinma Iweala is an acclaimed Nigerian author, journalist, and advocate for global health issues. Known for his debut novel "Tellectual Papers," which deals with HIV/AIDS in Africa, Iweala has also written extensively on human rights and social justice. His insights often come from a place of deep engagement with both literature and activism, making him a respected voice when discussing the evolving nature of international relations and humanitarian values.