Human rights

These were human rights issues: they concerned people's freedom to express opinions, avoid persecution and make choices about their lives. Western criticism of Soviet repression helped maintain distrust of Moscow. Arms agreements could reduce military dangers without resolving these disagreements.

The atrocities of the Second World War, particularly the Holocaust, strengthened concern about human rights. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted in 1948 with Britain's support. Greater emphasis on protecting life and rejecting cruel treatment contributed to debate about harsh punishments, including the death penalty.