The declaration is largely about the rights of the individual.

The protection of the individual can really be traced back to the four freedoms alluded to in the preamble (freedom from fear and want, freedom of speech and belief). Although the word "individual" is only used once, in the preamble, many of the articles specifically protect the individual from the state. Most of the rules in the first section, like prohibiting slavery and torture, protect individual freedom. Article 14, guaranteeing the right to seek asylum, is a specific protection for individuals resisting their own governments.

It's hard to overstate how important that idea is. In these articles, the state is viewed as a potential threat to human rights, rather than the best instrument to promote them. Props to our very own Bill of Rights for inspiring this part of the declaration.

Most importantly, the declaration protects your right to freely develop your own personality. Article 18, with its emphasis on "freedom of thought, conscience, and religion" (18.1), is really about ensuring that you're allowed to believe and think whatever you want without it getting you jailed or killed.

The economic rights section of the declaration goes even further. Articles 23, 24, and 25 argue that all individuals deserve a certain standard of living, including perks like "rest and leisure" and "periodic holidays with pay" (24.1).

Seriously, your right to sleep in on the weekends is protected by the United Nations.