Understanding the concept of global inequalities requires an exploration of disparities that exist among countries, within societal structures, and at an individual level. These disparities span a wide range of critical aspects of life, including wealth, education, health access, and opportunity for growth. Together, they represent a worldwide spread of socioeconomic disparities – marked by the profoundly uneven distribution of resources – which impede equitable progress and prosperity for all.

Simultaneously, we grapple with the notion of 'human rights' – a set of inalienable rights and freedoms entitled to every human being, irrespective of their nationality, race, sex, or socio-economic status. Grounded in international law, largely through the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, they encompass civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights that form the bedrock of human dignity and equality.

The tight-knit relationship between global inequalities and human rights emerges glaringly when we examine these definitions side by side. Inequality, by its very nature, contradicts the principles of human rights, as it impinges on the equitable enjoyment of these fundamental rights. For instance, poverty, an expression of inequality, compromises individuals' human rights to quality education, health, and decent living standards.

To trace the history of issues related to global inequalities and human rights, we start with the era of colonialism and imperialism. It set in motion patterns of economic exploitation and social stratification that persist to this day. The successors of colonized regions inherited weakened political structures and depleted resources, incapacitating their capacity for sustainable development. This historical legacy manifests in contemporary global inequalities – in wealth distribution, accessibility to basic services and rights, and opportunities for empowerment.

Rolling into the 20th century, globalization and neoliberal economic policies further exacerbated these disparities, deepening the divide between the Global North – the wealthier, industrialized nations – and the Global South – the underprivileged, developing countries. There was a clear imbalance in this new world order, with wealth and power consolidated in the hands of a few.

The world Wars, over this timeline, marked turning points in the global human rights movement. Post-World War II, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights came into existence, establishing a global normative framework of fundamental rights. This pivotal milestone symbolized the collective global intention to prevent the recurrence of past atrocities. However, the global disparities entrenched in the socioeconomic fabric persisted, undermining the universal application of these rights.

In essence, the interplay of global inequalities and human rights struggles is interwoven into the fabric of our collective history. Today, the challenge remains to alleviate these inequalities and ensure respect for human rights in their entirety. The collective aim must be to foster inclusivity and equality in our increasingly interconnected, yet diverse world.