All peoples have the right to decide their own fate with a free expression of will.
Meaning
Written during Cold War tensions, this line says self-determination belongs to every people, not just powerful nations. Sakharov tied it to international human rights standards. On a personal scale, it reminds you to respect other people's right to make their own choices about their own lives.
Source: Progress, Coexistence and Intellectual Freedom (1968)
About the author
Andrei Sakharov (1921–1989) was a Soviet nuclear physicist who became a leading dissident and human rights advocate. He received the 1975 Nobel Peace Prize for his defense of human rights and opposition to the abuse of power.
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