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We found 458 results for "Antisemitism"

Statement

Statement for the Record: “Every State is a Border State: Examining Secretary Mayorkas’ Border Crisis” 

March 2, 2023

Statement for the Record of Human Rights First On House Committee on Homeland Security “Every State is a Border State: Examining Secretary Mayorkas’ Border Crisis”  Human Rights First is…

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Press

Human Rights First Denounces Extremism in Congressional Hearings

February 16, 2023

WASHINGTON, DC – After three Congressional hearings in three weeks where Members of Congress deliberately spread anti-immigrant and antisemitic sentiment, disinformation, and conspiracy theories —…

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Statement

Statement for the Record of Human Rights First On House Committee on Oversight and Accountability “On The Front Lines of the Border Crisis: A Hearing with Chief Patrol Agents”

February 7, 2023

Human Rights First is alarmed at the scale and dangers presented by orchestrated rhetoric that paints migrants and people seeking asylum at the U.S. border…

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Press

On Anniversary of January 6, Antidemocratic Extremism is Mainstream

January 6, 2023

WASHINGTON –  On the second anniversary of the insurrection at the United States Capitol, Human Rights First reprised its call to bring those responsible for…

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Press

January 6th Committee Report Renews Call for Criminal Accountability

December 22, 2022

WASHINGTON –  With today’s publication of the final report of the House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol…

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Press

Report Exposes QAnon’s Exploitation of U.S. Military’s Reputation

December 12, 2022

WASHINGTON D.C. –  Human Rights First today released “Digital Soldiers:” QAnon Extremists Exploit U.S. Military, Threaten Democracy, a report that examines how the extremist QAnon movement…

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Letter

NDAA should address extremism and antisemitism

November 21, 2022

Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Minority Leader McConnell, Speaker Pelosi, Minority Leader McCarthy, Chairman Reed, Ranking Member Inhofe, Chairman Smith, Ranking Member Rogers: We at Human…

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Letter

FY 2023 National Defense Authorization Act should include resources and policies to address extremism and antisemitism

November 21, 2022

Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Minority Leader McConnell, Speaker Pelosi, Minority Leader McCarthy, Chairman Reed, Ranking Member Inhofe, Chairman Smith, Ranking Member Rogers: We at Human…

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Press

Human Rights First Challenges Surge of Antisemitism and Anti-Black Hate

November 8, 2022

For more than a month, bigoted and dangerous actions and comments from Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, have ignited a surge of antisemitic incidents…

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Letter

Letter on “United We Stand” event

September 20, 2022

Dear Ambassador Rice, We applaud the administration’s efforts to address hate through the upcoming summit, United We Stand: Countering Hate-Fueled Violence Together. We believe that…

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Press

With New Hires, Human Rights First Builds Out Program on Extremism

September 19, 2022

WASHINGTON – Human Rights First today announced the hiring of Erin E. Wilson as the Senior Director for Extremism and Human Rights and Elizabeth Yates,…

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Press

Human Rights First to present Poland’s Grupa Granica with 2022 William D. Zabel Human Rights Award

September 19, 2022

NEW YORK — Human Rights First today announced that it will present Grupa Granica with the William D. Zabel Human Rights Award in recognition of…

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Topics

ANTISEMITISM AND EXTREMISM

September 19, 2022

The U.S. government should lead internationally on combating antisemitism and extremism. Among human rights groups in the United States, we’ve led the effort to ensure…

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Blog

Taking on Policies that Harm Human Rights Defenders at the Border

August 2, 2022

By Cora Wright, Legal Fellow, Refugee Protection and Refugee Representation A few weeks ago, a Mexican cartel in Nuevo Laredo kidnapped Baptist Pastor Lorenzo Ortiz,…

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Testimony

Domestic Extremism in America: Examining White Supremacist Violence in the Wake of Recent Attacks

June 9, 2022

Elizabeth Yates, Ph.D. Senior Researcher, Antisemitism Human Rights First Before the United States Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs June 9, 2022 Chairman…

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Press

Yates Testifies on Extremist Threat to Americans and Democracy

June 9, 2022

WASHINGTON D.C. – This morning, Human Rights First’s Senior Researcher on Antisemitism, Dr. Liz Yates, testified before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee…

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Press

With New Hires, Human Rights First Builds Out Program on Extremism

May 24, 2022

WASHINGTON – Human Rights First today announced the hiring of Erin E. Wilson as the Senior Director for Extremism and Human Rights and Elizabeth Yates,…

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Press

Deadly Racist Extremism is Fostered Online, Buffalo Shooting Makes Clear

May 15, 2022

WASHINGTON D.C. -- Another act of domestic terrorism was perpetrated yesterday at a Buffalo market by a mass shooter who had been radicalized into racism…

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Press

Charlottesville Verdict a Win for Human Rights

November 23, 2021

WASHINGTON D.C. –– This afternoon’s verdicts in the civil case against the people and organizations that marshaled the deadly 2017 Charlottesville rally is a significant…

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Press

Human Rights First to Present Philippines Organization Karapatan with William D. Zabel Human Rights Award

May 5, 2021

NEW YORK — Human Rights First today announced that it will present Karapatan Alliance for the Advancement of People’s Rights with its annual William D. Zabel…

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Press

Human Rights First to Present Saudi Organization ALQST with Prestigious William D. Zabel Human Rights Award

October 6, 2020

The annual award will honor ALQST for their work exposing human rights abuses by the Saudi regime NEW YORK — Human Rights First today announced that…

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Press

Human Rights First Calls for Nominations for 29th Annual Roger N. Baldwin Medal of Liberty Award

May 18, 2020

WASHINGTON – Human Rights First today announced that nominations are now open for the 2020 Roger N. Baldwin Medal of Liberty Award. Nominations for the…

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Press

Human Rights First Calls for Accountability for Governments Which Encourage Hate

January 29, 2020

As House Examines Rise of Anti-Semitism in Europe, Human Rights First Calls for Practical Policy Solutions to Create Accountability for Governments Which Encourage Hate WASHINGTON…

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Testimony

Testimony of Ira N. Forman for the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia, Energy, and the Environment hearing on Resisting Anti-Semitism and Xenophobia in Europe

January 28, 2020

Testimony of Ira N. Forman Senior Advisor for Combating Antisemitism Human Rights First HOUSE FOREIGN AFFAIRS SUBCOMMITTEE ON EUROPE, EURASIA, ENERGY, AND THE ENVIRONMENT Resisting…

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Press

Human Rights First Statement on Antisemitic Attack in New York

December 30, 2019

Human Rights First’s Senior Advisor for Combatting Antisemitism, ­­­Ira Forman, issued the following statement in the aftermath of the deadly attack on a rabbi’s home in…

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Press

Human Rights First Statement on Day of Action Against Anti-Semitism

October 25, 2019

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Friday, October 25, 2019 MEDIA CONTACT Meredith MacKenzie, [email protected], (202) 412-4270 WASHINGTON – Human Rights First’s senior advisor for combating anti-Semitism and former U.S. special…

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Press

Hungary Must Reverse Its Support of Memorial to Antisemitic Politician

September 6, 2019

Washington, D.C.—In response to leading Hungarian government officials unveiling a statue to a virulently antisemitic World War Two era political leader, Gyula Kornis, Human Rights…

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Press

Bipartisan Resolution Addresses Eroding Democracy in Hungary

May 28, 2019

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today applauded introduction of new bipartisan legislation expressing deep concern over the Government of Hungary weakening democratic institutions, undermine free elections, and…

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Press

Trump Should Confront, not Accommodate, During Orban White House Visit

May 10, 2019

Washington, D.C—In advance of Monday’s White House meeting between President Trump and Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungary, Human Rights First calls on the Trump…

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Press

Pompeo Urged to Raise Threats to Rule of Law, Strategic Partnership on Hungary Trip

February 8, 2019

Washington, D.C.—In advance of Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s two-day trip to Budapest, Hungary beginning February 11, Human Rights First urges the secretary to raise the Hungarian government’s efforts to…

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Press

New State Department Envoy to Combat Antisemitism Will Face Tough Challenges

February 5, 2019

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today welcomed the appointment of Elan Carr to the position of special envoy to monitor and combat anti-Semitism at the Department…

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Press

Honoring International Holocaust Remembrance Day by Preserving Memory, Combating Hatred

January 25, 2019

New York City—To commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day, which falls on January 27th and marks the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and honors the six…

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Blog

Invest in Human Rights

December 31, 2018

We’re deeply grateful for your support in our mission to foster American leadership on human rights. This mission is grounded in the simple fact that…

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Press

Coalition Urges Congressional Leadership to Pass Legislation Combating Antisemitism

November 29, 2018

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First, in partnership with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and a coalition of local and national organizations, today called on congressional leadership to pass two…

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Press

Statement on the 80th Anniversary of Kristallnacht, the Night of Broken Glass

November 9, 2018

Washington, D.C.—In commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Kristallnacht, Ira Forman, senior advisor for combatting antisemitism at Human Rights First, and the former U.S. special envoy to monitor…

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Blog

One Week After Pittsburgh: A Former Auschwitz Museum Employee’s Perspective

November 6, 2018

By Hannah Sattler The Shabbat morning prayers begin with these two words: Sh’ma Yisrael. The Shema prayers serve to awaken the individual and the community for…

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Statement on Shooting at Tree of Life Synagogue

October 27, 2018

Washington, D.C.—In response to today’s tragic shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, Human Rights First released the following statement: Today we mourn…

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Press

Former Top U.S. Antisemitism Official Joins Human Rights First as Senior Advisor for Combating Antisemitism

September 26, 2018

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today announced that Ira Forman, former U.S. special envoy to monitor and combat anti-semitism, has joined Human Rights First as senior…

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Press

Human Rights First to Rename Annual Award after William D. Zabel

September 24, 2018

New York City—Human Rights First today announced that it will rename its annual award honoring frontline activists after its board co-chair Bill Zabel. The William…

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Blog

Charlottesville One Year Reunion: Act Against Hate, Don’t Talk About It

August 11, 2018

One year ago, Americans looked on in horror as tiki torch-carrying white nationalists chanted “Jew will not replace us” (sic) as they marched through the…

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Blog

Race or Religion: Louisiana Judge Looks to History on Jewish Discrimination in the Workplace

August 7, 2018

By Isaiah Affron On July 16, after hearing Bonadona v. Louisiana College, a magistrate judge in Louisiana ruled in favor of Joshua Bonadona, a football coach…

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Press

Human Rights First and ADL Release Scorecard on Hate Crime Reporting in 57 OSCE Nations

July 25, 2018

New York City—Against a backdrop of rising reports of hate crimes, Human Rights First and the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today released their annual analysis of hate crime reporting by…

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Press

Democracy in Europe Working Group Calls on NATO to Protect Democratic Institutions Ahead of Summit

July 6, 2018

Washington, D.C.—As part of a bipartisan group of more than 60 foreign policy experts, former U.S. government officials, and former members of Congress, Human Rights First today called on North Atlantic…

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Blog

120 Members of Bipartisan Taskforce Urge Pompeo to Fill Anti-Semitism Special Envoy Position

May 31, 2018

By Susan Corke and Mazarine Lestienne Over the past 16 months, members of Congress, civil society, former senior government officials, Jewish and other religious leaders,…

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Press

Bipartisan Coalition Urges Pompeo to Appoint Antisemitism Envoy

May 23, 2018

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First and the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), in partnership with a bipartisan coalition of organizations and individuals, today called on Secretary of State…

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Letter

Letter to Secretary Pompeo Calling for Appointment of Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism

May 23, 2018

The Honorable Michael Pompeo Secretary of State U.S. Department of State 2201 C Street NW Washington, DC 20520 Dear Mr. Secretary: Now that you have…

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Press

Human Rights First President and CEO Elisa Massimino to Step Down

April 30, 2018

Washington, D.C.—After a decade of leading the organization, Elisa Massimino has announced that she will be stepping down from her post as President and CEO…

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Press

State Department Human Rights Reports Selectively Criticize Abuses

April 25, 2018

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today expressed concern regarding apparent changes made to the State Department’s Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for 2017, compared to…

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Blog

Last Day of Yom HaShoah: A Dangerous Rise in Antisemitic Hate Among Youth as we Remember the Holocaust

April 19, 2018

By Mazarine Lestienne On January 29, 2018, an eight-year-old schoolboy wearing a kippah and a prayer shawl was attacked by two teenagers in Sarcelles (Val-d’Oise,…

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Blog

Yom HaShoah—”To Truly Honor the Past we Must Understand the Present and Preserve the Future”

April 12, 2018

On March 23, 2018—one week before Passover and three weeks before Yom HaShoah—Mireille Knoll, an 85-year-old French Holocaust survivor, was brutally stabbed to death and…

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Press

Democracy in Europe Working Group Raises Alarm over Assault on Democratic Principles in NATO Countries

April 4, 2018

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today joined a bipartisan group of more than 60 foreign policy experts, former U.S. government officials, and former members of Congress in calling attention to…

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Press

Human Rights First Calls for Nominations for 29th Annual Roger N. Baldwin Medal of Liberty Award

April 4, 2018

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today announced that nominations are now open for the 2018 Roger N. Baldwin Medal of Liberty Award.  The 2018 award will go to…

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Blog

Congress Showed that Combating Antisemitism is a Priority. Will the Administration?

March 27, 2018

By Susan Corke and Zahava Moerdler Antisemitic incidents are increasing at home and abroad. In response, Human Rights First and our partners in the Jewish community…

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Fact Sheet

The U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism

March 5, 2018

What is the Special Envoy? The special envoy to monitor and combat antisemitism works on behalf of the secretary of state to implement policies and…

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Blog

Spirit of Unity at Congressional Breakfast on Combatting Antisemitism

February 22, 2018

Antisemitism is a red line. This clear conviction was the message espoused by members of the New York congressional delegation at a breakfast hosted by…

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Press

International Holocaust Remembrance Day and the Trump Administration

January 26, 2018

New York City—To commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Human Rights First urges the U.S. government to deepen its efforts to combat antisemitism and other forms of bigotry at home and…

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Press

Hungarian Church Cancels Plans to Honor Nazi Ally on Holocaust Remembrance Day

January 25, 2018

New York City—Human Rights First today welcomed reports that a Hungarian church had cancelled plans for a memorial mass honoring Hungarian leader and Nazi ally…

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Blog

Upholding the International Religious Freedom Act

October 30, 2017

Friday marked the 19th anniversary of the 1998 International Religious Freedom Act. It was originally passed in response to growing religious persecution globally, a problem…

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Blog

Austria: Another Political Success Built on a Populism?

October 20, 2017

By Teresa Eder On October 15, the Austrian electorate rewarded 31-year-old foreign minister Sebastian Kurz of the Austrian Conservative Party (ÖVP) and far-right candidate Heinz…

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Press

In Testimony, Berschinski Calls on State Dept. to Pair Religious Freedom Efforts with Human Rights

October 11, 2017

Washington, D.C.—In testimony today before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Human Rights First’s Senior Vice President for Policy Rob Berschinski urged Congress…

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Press

French National Assembly Approves Discriminatory Counterterrorism Bill

October 3, 2017

New York City—Human Rights First expressed concern over today’s passage of a controversial counterterrorism bill by the French National Assembly. The legislation enshrines into law…

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Press

Joint Resolution Condemning Hate Groups Receives Unanimous Support in Senate

September 12, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First applauds yesterday’s unanimous passage of a joint resolution in the Senate condemning white nationalists, white supremacists, the Ku Klux Klan, neo-Nazis, and similar hate…

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Blog

After Charlottesville, Boston Offers A Way Forward

August 24, 2017

For a country searching for answers after Charlottesville, the people of Boston provided some. In Boston, the “Free Speech Coalition” holding the rally claimed it wasn’t promoting…

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Blog

Aligning American Foreign Policy to Protect Religious Freedom

August 21, 2017

On Tuesday Secretary of State Rex Tillerson delivered a speech to mark the release of the State Department’s annual International Religious Freedom Report. Human Rights First’s Rob Berschinski spoke…

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Press

White Nationalist Steve Bannon Departs White House, Gorka Needs to Follow

August 18, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today welcomed reports that White House Chief Strategist Steve Bannon is leaving his position in the Trump Administration. Prior to his…

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Press

French Senate Moves to Codify Discriminatory Counterterrorism Measures

July 19, 2017

New York City—Human Rights First today expressed concern over the approval of a new counterterrorism bill by the French Senate. The legislation enshrines into law measures…

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Press

Issue Brief Documents Hungary’s Actions to Stifle Civil Society, Deepen Russian Ties

July 13, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today released a new issue brief documenting the Hungarian government’s ongoing actions to stifle civil society and deepen ties to Russia. “How the…

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Blog

Despite Decisive Victory, Macron and En Marche Face Deep Divisions

June 23, 2017

This is a cross-post from HuffPost. Coauthored by Ilan Scialom From his commanding victory to his bold first days in office—which led to a emphatic…

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Press

Bipartisan Legislation would Elevate Status of U.S. Official to Combat Antisemitism Abroad

June 8, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today welcomed that the introduction of the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism Act of 2017 bill in the Senate. The bipartisan…

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Press

Bipartisan Legislation an Important Step to Fight Antisemitism in Europe

May 22, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First praised the House of Representatives, and in particular the Bipartisan Taskforce for Combating Anti-Semitism, for unanimously passing the Combating European Anti-Semitism Act of 2017 on Thursday. The…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: May 8, 2017

May 8, 2017

By Mary Elizabeth Margolis TOP ITEMS FRENCH ELECTION Emmanuel Macron won a decisive victory in yesterday’s French presidential elections, securing over 65 percent of the…

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Press

Issue Brief Analyzes Challenges Facing Next French President

May 5, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Ahead of this Sunday’s French presidential election, Human Rights First today released a new brief addressing some of the most contentious issues that will face the…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: May 1, 2017

May 1, 2017

By Mary Elizabeth Margolis Top Items Sebastian Gorka Ousted from White House New reports indicate that Sebastian Gorka is likely to be removed from his current position…

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Press

Administration Urged to Appoint Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism

April 14, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today expressed alarm over reports that the Trump Administration may not fill the U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism position…

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Blog

Sebastian Gorka’s Shady Ties to Racist Groups

April 11, 2017

By Dora Illei Sebastian Gorka, President Trump’s counterterrorism advisor, continues to face controversy over his links to antisemitic and racist groups in Hungary. NBC News released…

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Press

Bannon Removal from National Security Council a Victory for American Ideals

April 5, 2017

New York City—Human Rights First today welcomed reports that Stephen Bannon, chief strategist to President Trump, has been removed from the National Security Council. Prior…

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Press

Trump Urged to Immediately Dismiss Sebastian Gorka

April 3, 2017

New York City— Human Rights First is calling on President Trump to immediately dismiss senior White House counterterrorism advisor Sebastian Gorka following revelations that in 2007 he publicly…

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Prioritizing U.S. Leadership on Hate Crime Through Improved Data Collection and Reporting

March 31, 2017

In the wake of a divisive campaign season and the election of President Trump, bias-motivated rhetoric and violence is gaining a prominent place in the…

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Press

White House Urged to Suspend, Investigate Sebastian Gorka

March 16, 2017

New York City— In response to news reports today indicating that senior White House counterterrorism advisor Sebastian Gorka is a member of the Hungarian far-right…

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Press

Congress, Human Rights Groups Urge Administration to Appoint Special Envoy to Combat Anti-Semitism

March 13, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First, along with a bipartisan group of 167 members of Congress and 12 supporting organizations, urged President Trump to prioritize the appointment…

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Blog

Six Questions for State’s First Press Briefing Under Tillerson

March 7, 2017

Today the U.S. State Department promises to hold its first daily press briefing under the Trump administration. Roughly thirty working days into the tenure of…

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Blog

Fighting Antisemitism at Home and Abroad

March 7, 2017

Last week the Bipartisan Congressional Task Force for Combating Anti-Semitism called on President Trump to develop a comprehensive response to antisemitic hate crime. The appeal…

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Blog

Sebastian Gorka’s Xenophobic Equivocations on Islam

March 3, 2017

This blog is cross posted with The Huffington Post Controversial presidential adviser Sebastian Gorka was on NPR yesterday discussing President Trump’s address to Congress. He…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: February 27, 2017

February 27, 2017

By Mary Elizabeth Margolis TOP ITEMS President Trump to Address Congress President Trump will give his first address to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday.…

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Blog

President Trump on Antisemitism: Some Talk, No Action

February 24, 2017

By Dora Illei The White House’s struggle to hit the mark on the issue of antisemitism continues, although members of the administration finally seem to…

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Blog

Interfaith Solidarity for Today’s Activists

February 23, 2017

By Erika Asgeirsson Over the past few weeks, the United States, and indeed the world, have been on edge as President Trump issued rapid-fire executive orders barring…

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Press

President Trump Should Take Concrete Steps to Combat Antisemitic Hate Crime

February 21, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged President Trump to make stronger public statements condemning acts of antisemitism, and to take concrete steps to strengthen responses…

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Blog

Trump Shows How Not to Respond to Antisemitism

February 16, 2017

By Erika Asgeirsson On Wednesday, during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Trump was asked about the rise of antisemitic incidents since his…

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Press

President Trump’s Response on Antisemitism Widely Misses the Mark

February 15, 2017

New York City—Human Rights First today said that President Trump’s statement on antisemitism and hate crime in the United States was inappropriate and widely missed…

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Blog

How Not to Honor Holocaust Remembrance Day

February 13, 2017

By Dora Illei On International Holocaust Remembrance Day, it is customary for the U.S. government to honor its victims, who were primarily Jewish. In last year’s…

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Press

Human Rights First Releases New Report on Rise of Extremism, Far-Right in Germany

February 7, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today released a new report examining antisemitism, xenophobia, and extremism in Germany. The report, “Germany Conflicted: The Struggle Between Xenophobia and…

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Report

Germany Conflicted: The Struggle Between Xenophobia and Tolerance

February 6, 2017

  Germany is at a tipping point as it heads into important national elections in 2017. Hate crimes, particularly those associated with xenophobia, have increased…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: February 6, 2017

February 6, 2017

By Mary Elizabeth Margolis TOP ITEMS Muslim Ban Temporarily Halted A decision Sunday by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit preserved a lower…

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Blog

Trump Win Encourages Europe’s Far Right

December 16, 2016

A few weeks after the U.S. election, I was in Berlin to discuss a report we are writing on xenophobia and extremism in Germany. In parallel, we watched…

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Press

Kerry Urged to Counter Extremism, Antisemitism at OSCE

December 7, 2016

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged Secretary of State John Kerry to uphold the values of the Organization for Society and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE)…

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Letter

Letter to Secretary Kerry on OSCE Ministerial Council

December 7, 2016

Dear Secretary Kerry: This year’s meeting of the Ministerial Council of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) comes at a critical and…

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Blog

The NSU Trial: The Golden Dawn and Beyond (Part 4)

December 6, 2016

By Dora Illei and Zahava Moerdler In this four-part blog series, Human Rights First is examining the crimes and trial of the National Socialist Underground…

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Press

As Hate Rhetoric Dominates Political Sphere, Report Shows Underreporting of Bias-Motivated Incidents Among OSCE States

November 30, 2016

Washington, D.C.— As xenophobic and hate-filled rhetoric dominates political discourse in Europe and the United States, Human Rights First and the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today…

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Blog

The NSU Trial: Responding to Institutional Racism in Law Enforcement (Part 3)

November 17, 2016

By Erika Asgeirsson and Zahava Moerdler In this four-part blog series, Human Rights First is examining the crimes and trial of the National Socialist Underground…

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Blog

OSCE Releases Hate Crimes Data

November 16, 2016

In both Europe and the United States, hate crimes are rising along with the public expressions of hatred fanned by extreme political forces. Immediately following…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: November 14, 2016

November 14, 2016

Top Items 2016 Election This year’s divisive campaign season was filled with troubling rhetoric and policy proposals that are out of step with the United States’…

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Press

Bannon Appointment Undermines U.S. Global Leadership on Human Rights

November 14, 2016

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today expressed grave concern about the announcement by President-elect Donald Trump that Steve Bannon will serve as Mr. Trump’s chief strategist…

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Blog

The NSU Trial: A Victim-Sensitive Approach to Hate Crime Investigations (Part 2)

November 8, 2016

By Erika Asgeirsson and Zahava Moerdler In this four-part blog series, Human Rights First is examining the crimes and trial of the National Socialist Underground…

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Blog

The NSU Trial: A Case Study in Structural Racism in Germany (Part 1)

November 1, 2016

By Dora Illei and Zahava Moerdler In this four-part blog series, Human Rights First will examine the crimes and trial of the National Socialist Underground…

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Press

Bipartisan Legislation Addresses Growing Antisemitism in Europe

October 11, 2016

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged members of Congress to support the bipartisan bill H.R. 6208, the Combating European Anti-Semitism Act of 2016. The bill was…

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Blog

Why Religion Matters: Fighting Intolerance with Broad Coalitions

September 30, 2016

By Erika Asgeirsson This week I attended #RadCon, a Religion and Diplomacy Conference hosted by the State Department’s Office of Religion and Global Affairs. The…

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Blog

Anti-Immigrant Platform Leads German Far-Right Party to Berlin’s State Parliament

September 22, 2016

By Dora Illei German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s party, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), continued to lose voters in the September 18 German state election. It won…

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Fact Sheet

Recommendations to the U.S. Delegation to the OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meeting

September 19, 2016

Antisemitism and other forms of hate-based violence are on the rise in Europe. Steps taken in the name of national security often contribute to more division and…

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Blog

U.N. High Level Forum on Global Antisemitism

September 14, 2016

By Erika Asgeirsson On Wednesday September 7, representatives from governments, civil society, and tech gathered to discuss the most pressing issues related to antisemitism around…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: September 12, 2016

September 12, 2016

Top Items Global Refugee Crisis This Thursday the White House will host an event to celebrate the contributions of refugees resettled in the United States.  The…

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Press

Human Rights First’s Corke to Speak Today at U.N. on Combating Global Antisemitism

September 7, 2016

New York City—Today in remarks during the United Nations’ High Level Forum on Global Antisemitism, Human Rights First’s Susan Corke urged governments around the world…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: September 6, 2016

September 6, 2016

Top Items Congress This month in New York City world leaders will attend two major summits designed to address the ongoing global refugee crisis, the…

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Blog

Two Months Later: Brexit Unleashes Hate Crimes

August 23, 2016

By Zahava Moerdler Immediately following the U.K.’s vote to exit the European Union, there was a significant uptick in hate crimes in the U.K. and…

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Blog

Putting the International Religious Freedom Report into Action

August 16, 2016

By Zahava Moerdler The State Department published its International Religious Freedom Report on Wednesday August 10, analyzing the status of religious freedom around the world in 2015…

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Blog

My Trip to Dresden, the Epicenter of Far-Right Germany

August 1, 2016

Simmering tensions in Germany have reached a boiling point, manifesting in violent attacks from various directions. Two weeks ago I was traveling to Berlin and…

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Blog

In the Face of Terror, France Moves Towards Religious Unity

July 28, 2016

By Zahava Moerdler Rather than tightening laws and restricting freedoms in the name of fighting terror, French President Francois Hollande insists that unity is more…

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Blog

The View from Munich

July 27, 2016

Last Friday I was wrapping up a research trip to Berlin and Munich, having met with government officials, NGOs, foundations, and grassroots organizers working to…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: July 18, 2016

July 18, 2016

TOP NEWS Guantanamo Bay There are 59 motions on the docket for consideration during the next two weeks as the military commission proceedings for the…

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Press

Following Nice Attack, France Response Should Reflect Sustainable Counterterrorism Steps that Uphold Human Rights

July 15, 2016

New York City—Human Rights First today sends its deepest condolences to the government and people of France for the unspeakable act of violence that has…

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Blog

Antisemitism Causes Rifts in Germany’s Far Right

July 12, 2016

By Zahava Moerdler On July 5, 13 of the 23 members of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) parliamentary group in the German state of Baden-Wuerttemberg…

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Elie Wiesel’s Legacy Inspires New Generation to Counter Injustice

July 12, 2016

By Zahava Moerdler I will never forget the first time I read Night. I was in 8th grade and my class spent the year learning…

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Racism in the Age of Brexit: A European Trend

June 28, 2016

By Zahava Moerdler While a variety of factors led to the victory for “leave,” there’s no denying that bigotry played a big role. The xenophobia…

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Mobilizing Against Hate in Brussels as Hate Claims Another Victim in the UK

June 23, 2016

As I joined a consultative seminar in Brussels at the European Parliament on building coalitions to counter antisemitism, intolerance, and discrimination, we received word of…

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Civil Society Mobilizing in France to Counter All Forms of Discrimination

June 8, 2016

“Racism doesn’t belong to the community touched by it; it affects us all.” This week I traveled to Paris to meet with civil society groups…

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Substantial Rise in Far-Right Violence in Germany Reported Since Refugee Crisis Began

May 26, 2016

By Timothy Meyers Far-right aggression in Germany is on a dramatic rise. Interior Minister Thomas de Maizière announced on Monday that 2015 has seen the most crippling…

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Press

Human Rights First Welcomes Joint State Department and USAID Strategy on Countering Extremism

May 26, 2016

New York City – Human Rights First today said that the release of a new joint strategy on Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) between the Department of State…

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New French Report Shows Rise in Attacks on Muslims, Sustained Targeting of Jews

May 6, 2016

By Annie Glasser France’s National Human Rights Commission (CNCDH) recently released a report on the fight against racism in France. The CNCDH reported 429 anti-Muslim threats and…

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Blog

In Berlin, President Obama Calls for Tolerance and Strengthening Transatlantic Alliance

April 25, 2016

Today President Obama called for inclusion, tolerance, and the strengthening of the transatlantic alliance in a speech in Germany. He’s there to meet with Western European leaders…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: April 25, 2016

April 25, 2016

TOP NEWS Obama in Germany President Obama is in Berlin meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, British Prime Minister David Cameron, French President Francois Hollande…

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Fact Sheet

Germany: Antisemitism, Xenophobia, and Far-Right Extremism

April 22, 2016

Germany is facing a tipping point. Germany is Europe’s economic and political lynchpin; as such, Germany is positioned to play a leadership role in a…

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Press

In Germany, Obama Urged to Promote Refugee Protection and Support Efforts to Address Antisemitism and Extremism

April 22, 2016

New York City – In light of his upcoming meetings in Germany, Human Rights First today called on President Obama to promote the protection of refugees and…

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Testimony

Statement at OSCE Session on Responses to Intolerance and Discrimination, Including Hate Crime and Hate Speech

April 15, 2016

Statement by Susan Corke at OSCE Supplementary Human Dimension Meeting, April 2016 – Session III: Responses to Intolerance and Discrimination, Including Hate Crimes, Hate Speech and Hate…

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Amid a Crisis, an Opportunity for Support: On the ground in Germany

April 15, 2016

Germany is grappling with a lot: that’s a message I heard in different ways in different conversations this past week in Berlin. Having borne the…

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Press

Report Shows Underreporting of Hate Crimes Among OSCE States

April 12, 2016

Washington, D.C.—A report jointly released today by Human Rights First and the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) found that hate crimes in the Organization for Security and…

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Blog

French Minister Disregards Right to Religious Expression

April 1, 2016

By Annie Glasser On Wednesday French Minister for Family, Children, and Women’s Rights Laurence Rossignol compared Muslim women who wear traditional head coverings to “American…

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Press

French Government Rejects Measures to Limit Human Rights

March 30, 2016

New York City—Human Rights First today praises French President Francois Hollande’s decision to abandon proposed constitutional amendments that would have undermined human rights, civil liberties,…

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Washington Week on Human Rights: March 28, 2016

March 28, 2016

Top News Global Refugee Crisis In a move that would severely hinder the ability of the United States to provide protection for those fleeing violence in…

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Press

European Terror Attacks Fuel Responses that Undermine National Security and Human Rights

March 22, 2016

New York City—Human Rights First today is saddened by the horrific terrorist attacks that took place in Belgium, and calls on European leaders to resist…

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Press

French Senate Should Reject Constitutional Amendment

March 21, 2016

New York City—Human Rights First today calls on French lawmakers to reject proposals that would amend the French constitution to include terms for declaring a…

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Problematic French Constitutional Reforms on the Horizon

March 18, 2016

By Rebecca Sheff and Annie Glasser The French parliament is considering a set of constitutional amendments. One would add provisions to the constitution on the…

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Ira Forman Addresses Rising Tide of Antisemitism at Inter-Parliamentary Coalition for Combatting Antisemitism

March 18, 2016

By Annie Glasser Ira Forman, the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism at the State Department, recently addressed the third conference of the Inter-Parliamentary Coalition…

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Following Elections, U.S. Government Should Focus on Rise of Far Right in Germany

March 16, 2016

By Susan Corke and Timothy Meyers The U.S. government should view the results of this weekend’s elections in Germany as a wakeup call. They show…

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Fact Sheet

Far-right Parties in European Elections

March 11, 2016

The past decade has seen the ascendance of several far-right political parties across Europe. These groups—many of which have been roundly criticized for their antisemitic,…

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Press

German Elections Highlight Rise of Far Right as Kerry Travels to Europe

March 11, 2016

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged the U.S. government to see the expected results of tomorrow’s elections in Germany as a wake-up call to the…

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Press

Secretary Blinken Urged to Make Countering Violent Extremism and Antisemitism Priority during French Visit

March 3, 2016

New York City—Human Rights First calls for Deputy Secretary of State Antony Blinken to urge his French counterparts to exercise restraint in the use of…

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Blog

The Hungarian Government Finds a New Old Way to Dash Hopes and Stir Anger

February 24, 2016

Not too long ago we credited Hungary’s decision to cancel the statue honoring notorious antisemite Bálint Hóman as an important signal that antisemitism would not be tolerated and…

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Blog

ODIHR Director Testifies on Antisemitism and Hate Crimes Data Collection

February 18, 2016

The director of the OSCE’s Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) Michael Georg Link, recently testified at a congressional hearing convened by the Helsinki Commission.…

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Blog

French Government Denies Xenophobic Pegida Movement a Platform in Calais

February 5, 2016

By Annie Glasser Patriotic Europeans Against the Islamization of the West (Pegida) is a growing xenophobic extreme right-wing political movement. It emerged in Germany in…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: February 1, 2016

February 3, 2016

Top News Global Refugee Crisis Congress will address the ongoing global refugee crisis during a series of hearings this week. On Wednesday, the House Homeland Security…

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Blog

Poland and the Threat of Illiberalism

January 29, 2016

By Timothy Meyers Poland’s far-right Law and Justice Party (PiS) took power two months ago and has enacted a number of laws eroding democratic safeguards.…

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Press

On International Holocaust Remembrance Day, U.S. Should Continue to Prioritize Antisemitism

January 27, 2016

Washington, D.C.—To commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Human Rights First urges the U.S. government to continue working with its allies to make antisemitism and extremism…

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Reflections on International Holocaust Remembrance Day 2016

January 27, 2016

Seventy-one years ago today, the Soviet army liberated Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest of the Nazi death camps. One million people died there during WWII. There is…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: January 19, 2016

January 21, 2016

Top News Global Refugee Crisis Tomorrow the Senate will take up the American SAFE Act, legislation that would effectively halt the resettlement of vulnerable refugees…

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Blog

Emile Zola’s J’accuse and the Dreyfus Affair

January 13, 2016

By Timothy Meyers Today marks the 118th year anniversary of Emile Zola’s J’accuse editorial, which condemned the French military for its failure to reveal evidence exonerating French Jewish…

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U.S. Fails to Recognize Targeting of Jews on Anniversary of Paris Attacks

January 12, 2016

On January 7 the State Department released a press statement marking the one-year anniversary of the horrific attacks in Paris. Yet there was a troubling omission: the…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: January 11, 2016

January 11, 2016

Top News Guantanamo Over the weekend, White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough reaffirmed President Obama’s promise to shutter Guantanamo before the end of his final…

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Press

New Major Report Outlines Strategies to Combat French Antisemitism and Extremism

January 7, 2016

Washington, D.C.—Today to mark the one-year anniversary of the tragic attacks on Charlie Hebdo and a kosher supermarket in Paris, Human Rights First has released…

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Report

Breaking the Cycle of Violence

January 7, 2016

Countering Antisemitism and Extremism in France Executive Summary The deadly terrorist attacks on November 13 in Paris, coming less than a year after the killings…

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Blog

FDR’s “Four Freedoms” 75 Years Ago and Today

January 6, 2016

On January 6, 1941, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt gave his now-famous speech on four freedoms essential to democracy and human rights: Freedom of speech Freedom…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: January 4, 2016

January 5, 2016

Top News Guantanamo A senior U.S. official who spoke on the condition of anonymity confirmed to CNN that 17 detainees cleared for release from the U.S. detention facility…

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Event

Countering Antisemitism and Extremism in France

January 2, 2016

Human Rights First just released “Breaking the Cycle of Violence: Countering Antisemitism and Extremism in France,” a major report on antisemitism and extremism in France. The…

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Blog

Antisemitism and Authoritarianism in Hungary: 2015 in Review

December 23, 2015

Ever since Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán espoused “illiberal” democracy, Hungary has taken on an antagonistic role within the European Union. Yet even as the…

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Blog

What Does Laïcité Mean to You? Identity and Antisemitism in France

December 23, 2015

The holiday season is here and families across the world are gathering in celebration, and we hope that it will be a season of peace.…

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Press

Hungarian Government Abandons Statue Honoring Antisemite

December 21, 2015

New York City—Human Rights First today welcomed the Hungarian government’s decision to cancel its plans to build a statue honoring notorious antisemite Bálint Hóman. The…

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Press

Hungary Delays Statue of Antisemite

December 16, 2015

New York City—Human Rights First applauds the Hungarian government for postponing a planned statue to honor notorious antisemite Bálint Hóman in the town of Székesfehérvár. The announcement…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: December 14, 2015

December 15, 2015

Top News Extremism in France During yesterday’s second round of French regional elections, voters rejected candidates from the far-right political party the National Front. The development…

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Press

Human Rights First Urges Hungary to Abandon Antisemitic Statue

December 15, 2015

Washington, D.C.—In a statement today Human Rights First urged the Hungarian government to cease its plans to build a statute honoring Bálint Hóman, a notorious antisemite, in…

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Blog

U.S. Officials in Hungary Should Strongly Urge Orbán to Drop Plans for Antisemitic Statue

December 14, 2015

The State Department is sending a senior delegation to Hungary to address that country’s plans to erect a statue in commemoration of Bálint Hóman, a…

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Press

French Voters Reject Far-Right Party in Regional Elections

December 13, 2015

New York City—In response to today’s second round of French regional elections, which early results indicate as a poor showing for the far-right political party…

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Press

Americans Want Stronger U.S. Leadership on Key Human Rights Issues

December 9, 2015

According to a Human Rights First Study conducted by Harris Poll Washington, D.C.—Today, Human Rights First released a new study conducted by Harris Poll showing broad bipartisan…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: December 7, 2015

December 8, 2015

Top News Extremism in France France’s far-right National Front party, spearheaded by Marine Le Pen, reportedly made major gains in yesterday’s regional elections. News sources say…

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Press

Far-Right National Front Gains Seats in French Regional Elections

December 6, 2015

Washington, D.C.—Today Human Rights First called on the U.S. government to redouble its efforts to promote tolerance in France in the wake of today’s regional elections,…

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Press

U.S. Should Pressure Hungary to Abandon Plans to Build Statue Honoring Anti-Semite

December 4, 2015

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today called on the Obama Administration to pressure its Hungarian counterparts to halt plans to build a statue in honor of notorious anti-Semite…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: November 30, 2015

December 2, 2015

Top News Torture Last week, President Obama signed into law an updated defense authorization bill for fiscal year 2016 that included a landmark provision reinforcing the…

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Fact Sheet

Stemming the Tide of Extremism in Greece: Recommendations for the United States

December 2, 2015

The Obama Administration can take the following steps now to combat the rise of hate parties in Greece and the erosion of democratic norms and…

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Blog

Reflections from Paris on Standing in Solidarity Against Hate

December 1, 2015

I just returned from a trip to Paris and came away with a profound respect for the courage, strength, and resilience of the people of…

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Press

Antisemitic Attack in Marseilles Highlights Need for Action Against Extremism

November 19, 2015

New York City—Human Rights First is deeply alarmed by the latest violence yesterday in Marseilles, where three individuals reportedly attacked a Jewish man. A veiled Muslim woman was also attacked…

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Press

Following France Attacks, United States Should Take Concrete Steps to Curb Extremism

November 15, 2015

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First sends its deepest condolences to the government and people of France for the unspeakable acts of violence that killed…

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Blog

Young European Activists Combating Antisemitism Appear on Brian Lehrer Show

October 26, 2015

By Megdi Abebe On Friday, the 2015 Human Rights First Award winners, Jane Braden-Golay, President of the European Union of Jewish Students (Switzerland); Siavosh Derakhti, Founder…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: October 26, 2015

October 26, 2015

Top News Family Immigration Detention The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services has announced that it will not renew the license of the Berks County Residential Center,…

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Press

Activists Combating Antisemitism, HBO Documentary Films, Leading Law Firms to Receive Awards during Human Rights First Dinner Tonight

October 21, 2015

New York City – Tonight at Human Rights First’s annual awards dinner at Chelsea Piers in New York City, the organization will honor European human rights activists Jane…

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Blog

State Department Official Calls out Hungary on Human Rights and Democracy Concerns

October 20, 2015

Last week we reported on the cool reception of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán from other leaders at the United Nations. Now we turn to the recent…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: October 19, 2015

October 19, 2015

Top News Antisemitism Tomorrow Senator Ben Cardin and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Special Representative on Anti-Semitism, Racism, and Intolerance will host a conversation on Combating Anti-Semitism…

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Press

Veteran Foreign Policy Expert Susan Corke Joins Human Rights First as Director of Countering Antisemitism and Extremism

October 15, 2015

New York City—Human Rights First today announced that Susan Corke has joined the organization to lead an intensified effort to counter antisemitism and extremism, with a special focus on…

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Press

Three Young Activists Working to Combat Antisemitism in Europe to Receive 2015 Human Rights First Award

September 24, 2015

New York City – Human Rights First will honor European human rights activists Jane Braden-Golay, Siavosh Derakhti, and Niddal El-Jabri with its 2015 Human Rights First Award. The…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: July 13, 2015

July 13, 2015

Top News Extremism in Hungary This week on Capitol Hill, the Hungarian American Institute is lobbying with a delegation that includes Hungarian Member of Parliament Gabor…

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Press

Far-Right Political Group Formed in European Parliament

June 17, 2015

New York City—Human Rights First said that yesterday’s formation of a political group by far-right parties in the European Parliament reinforces the need for the…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: June 8, 2015

June 8, 2015

Top News Torture This week in an historic step forward toward ensuring that torture is never again the official policy of the United States, Senators John…

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Press

President Obama Urged to Raise Extremism, Antisemitism as G7 Nations Meet to Address Security Concerns

June 3, 2015

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today urged President Obama to work with his Group of Seven counterparts to confront antisemitism and extremism in a way that strengthens the Trans-Atlantic…

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Letter

Letter to President Obama in Preparation for G-7 Summit

June 3, 2015

June 3, 2015 The Honorable Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, N.W. Washington, DC 20500 Dear President Obama: The Group of Seven Summit…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: June 1, 2015

June 2, 2015

Top News Defense Authorization The Senate is poised to consider its FY16 National Defense Authorization Act, a bill that could have significant ramifications for U.S. national…

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Press

President Obama Urged to Underscore U.S. Leadership to Combat Growing Antisemitism in Europe During Solidarity Shabbat Address

May 21, 2015

Washington, D.C.­ – Human Rights First today urged President Obama to address the disturbing growth of antsemitism in Europe during his remarks for Solidarity Shabbat…

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Blog

Tad Stahnke Testifies to Congress on the Rise of Extremism and Antisemitism in Hungary

May 21, 2015

On Tuesday, the Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats subcommittee of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs held a hearing on “The Future of U.S.-Hungary Relations.”…

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Fact Sheet

Stemming the Tide of Extremism: Recommendations for the European Commission and Hungarian Government

May 20, 2015

The government of Hungary can advance human rights and democracy, and improve relations with the U.S. and Europe, by bringing its 2011 Constitution and Fundamental…

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Press

Stahnke Testimony Outlines U.S. Response to Hungary’s Authoritarianism

May 19, 2015

Washington, D.C.—Amidst a rise of authoritarianism in Hungary, Human Rights First’s Tad Stahnke will testify before Congress today to detail practical steps the U.S. government…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: May 18, 2015

May 18, 2015

Top News Equality Yesterday was International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO), a time to celebrate advocates around the world who work, often at great risk to themselves,…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: April 27, 2015

April 27, 2015

Top News State Department Country Reports Early this week, the U.S. State Department is expected to release its 2014 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices.…

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Press

U.S. Should Lead in Worldwide Fight Against Antisemitism, Extremism

April 16, 2015

Washington, D.C.—To commemorate Holocaust Remembrance Day, which begins tonight at sundown, Human Rights First’s Tad Stahnke has released the following statement: “As the world pauses…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: April 13, 2015

April 13, 2015

Top News Equality in Jamaica During his trip to Jamaica last week, President Obama voiced support for the island’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT)…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: March 16, 2015

March 16, 2015

Top News WAR AUTHORIZATION On Wednesday, Defense Secretary Ashton Carter and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Martin Dempsey will appear before the…

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Blog

Senate Tackles Antisemitism in Europe

February 27, 2015

Today the Senate introduced a bipartisan resolution calling on the U.S. government to confront the rise of antisemitism in Europe. The resolution, with 54 co-sponsors from both…

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Press

President Obama Makes Case for Putting Human Rights at the Heart of Countering Extremism

February 19, 2015

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First welcomed President Obama’s speech today at the White House Summit to Counter Violent Extremism (CVE), in which he affirmed that the fight against violent extremism requires…

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Letter

U.S. Ambassador to Hungary Should Encourage Government to Protect Human Rights

February 18, 2015

February 15, 2015 The Honorable Colleen Bell, U.S. Ambassador to Hungary Embassy of the United States of America Szabadság tér 12 H-1054 Budapest Hungary Dear…

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Press

U.S. Ambassador to Hungary Should Encourage Government to Protect Human Rights, Rule of Law

February 17, 2015

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged U.S. Ambassador Colleen Bell to press Hungary to adopt policies that would improve the rule of law while strengthening…

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Press

Obama, Merkel Urged to Discuss Hungary’s Authoritarianism after White House Meeting

February 9, 2015

Washington, D.C.—As President Barack Obama and German Chancellor Andrea Merkel continue conversations that started during their meeting today, Human Rights First urges them to focus…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: January 26, 2015

January 26, 2015

Top News GUANTANAMO The military commission trial of Abd al-Hadi al-Iraqi continues this week at the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Human Rights First…

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Fact Sheets, Testimony

Remarks by Elisa Massimino at the UN General Assembly, Informal Session on Antisemitic Violence

January 23, 2015

January 22, 2015 Thank you for the opportunity to be here today to talk about this important issue. I want to thank His Excellency Mr.…

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Blog

Elisa Massimino to Speak at UNGA Panel on Antisemitism Today

January 22, 2015

The United Nations General Assembly is convening a special meeting today to address concerns about the rise of antisemitism around the world. The meeting comes…

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Press

Massimino Urges Countries to Combat Antisemitism in United Nations Address

January 22, 2015

New York City — In remarks today delivered to the United Nations, Human Rights First President and CEO Elisa Massimino urged countries to combat the rise of antisemitism…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: January 20, 2015

January 20, 2015

Top News STATE OF THE UNION Tonight at 9 p.m., President Obama will deliver his State of the Union address. He is expected to detail his…

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Press

President Renews Guantanamo Pledge in State of the Union Address

January 20, 2015

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today welcomed remarks made by President Obama during his State of the Union address that emphasized his continued commitment to…

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Press

National Security, Trafficking, Equality Among Topics at 3rd Annual Human Rights Summit

December 9, 2014

Washington, DC – Today and tomorrow, Human Rights First convenes its third annual Human Rights Summit, bringing together human rights defenders, U.S. policymakers, military leaders, and…

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Press

OSCE Ministerial Council Adopts Decision on Combating Antisemitism and Hate Crime

December 5, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today praised the Ministerial Council of the Organization for Society and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) for issuing a decision that…

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Press

Human Rights First Releases Analysis of Hate Crime in OSCE Region

December 3, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today issued an analysis of hate crime data from 57 countries which includes recommendations for governments of the Organization for Society and…

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Press

Secretary Kerry Should Press European Counterparts to Take Action Against Antisemitism

December 1, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First urges Secretary of State John Kerry to press European countries to adopt a Ministerial Council decision that sets out out an action…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: November 17, 2014

November 17, 2014

Top News Immigration During a Saturday panel at the Reagan Presidential Library, Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson confirmed that President Obama is expected to issue…

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Press

Ambassador Power Cautions that Antisemitism is Threat to Europe’s Future

November 13, 2014

Berlin – Human Rights First welcomes the strong statement in Berlin today by U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Power.  Power called antisemitism a rising global problem…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: November 10, 2014

November 12, 2014

Top News TORTURE This week, the United States will appear before the United Nations Committee Against Torture in Geneva to describe its efforts to fulfill America’s…

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Press

U.S. Should Push Democracy, Rights in Meeting with Hungarian Foreign Minister

October 20, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today urged the U.S. government to emphasize the need for democratic reforms in Hungary during a critical meeting scheduled for…

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Press

U.S. Sanctions Target Corrupt Hungarian Officials

October 17, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today welcomed reports that the United States has imposed visa bans on ten members of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s…

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Blueprint

How to Promote Ukraine’s Democracy

October 16, 2014

INTRODUCTION This blueprint is based on research conducted in Ukraine by Human Rights First staff, and on discussions with Ukrainian government and civil society representatives,…

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Press

More Rights Protections Needed as Anti-Roma, Antisemitic Party Scores Gains in Hungary

October 14, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today said more scrutiny from the European Union and United States is needed to protect human rights in Hungary…

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Press

Extremist Party Poised to Gain Seats in Hungarian Local Elections

October 10, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today expressed concern over reports that Hungary’s antisemitic, anti-Roma Jobbik Party may win control over a number of municipalities in…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: September 29, 2014

September 29, 2014

Top News ISIS This week, the United States will continue its work to expand the coalition of nations joining in the effort to defeat the Islamic…

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Press

Community of Democracies Should Reexamine Hungary’s Membership

September 26, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today called on the Community of Democracies to review whether Hungary should be voted off the organization’s Governing Council in…

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Press

OSCE Convenes Civil Society Leaders for Upcoming Antisemitism Conference

September 2, 2014

Washington D.C. – Human Rights First today praised the Organization for Security and Co-Operation in Europe (OSCE) for including members of civil society and nongovernmental organizations…

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Press

Greek Mayor’s Protest of Antisemitic City Councilors Demonstrates Need to Combat Extremist Parties

September 2, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today applauded actions by Yiannis Boutaris, the mayor of the Greek city of Thessaloniki, for wearing a Star of David…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: September 2, 2014

September 2, 2014

Top News Ukraine Tops NATO Agenda President Obama leaves today for a four-day trip that will include a high-profile meeting in Tallinn with the presidents of…

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Press

Upcoming NATO Summit Agenda Should Include Rising Neo-Facism, Antisemitism in Greece and Hungary

August 28, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today urged President Obama, Secretary of State John Kerry and Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel at the upcoming NATO Summit…

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Transcript

Transcript: Media Telebriefing on “We’re not Nazis, but… The Rise of Hate Parties in Hungary and Greece and Why America Should Care”

August 15, 2014

Below is a shortened transcript of the August 14 media telebriefing featuring Human Rights First’s Tad Stahnke and Sonni Efron, co-authors of the new report…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: August 11, 2014

August 11, 2014

Top News Antisemitism in Europe European nations continue to struggle with the rise of antisemitic violence. In recent months, businesses and places of worship have been…

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Press

European Leaders Should Speak Out Against Reactionary Antisemitic Violence

July 25, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First condemns violence that broke out in France this week, in which the Jewish community was terrorized by attacks from…

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Blog

European Leaders Condemn Violent Targeting of Jews during Israel-Gaza Crisis

July 24, 2014

By Maddy Tennis The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas has sparked a wave of protests in Europe. While most peacefully demand an end to…

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Letter

Congress Should Examine Ways United States and OSCE Can Combat European Antisemitism

July 22, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Today, as the Helsinki Commission holds a hearing on “Anti-Semitism, Racism and Discrimination in the OSCE Region,” Human Rights First urges lawmakers…

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Press

Human Rights First Receives MacArthur Foundation Grant

June 26, 2014

New York City  – Human Rights First is pleased to announce it has been selected as the recipient of a new grant from The John D.…

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Washington Week on Human Rights: June 23, 2014

June 23, 2014

Top News CRISIS IN IRAQ Secretary of State… Read More

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Jean-Marie Le Pen’s Antisemitic Comments Part of a Dangerous Trend

June 10, 2014

By Maddy Tennis On Sunday Jean-Marie Le Pen, founder of France’s far right National Front, made antisemitic remarks in a video posted on the party’s…

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Blog

LGBT Activist Refused Membership of New Ukrainian Party

June 5, 2014

As Vice President Joe Biden heads to Ukraine this weekend for the inauguration of new Ukrainian president Poroshenko, he might want to pay closer attention to the new era of…

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Press

Obama Should Address Far-Right Gains During Europe Trip

June 2, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today urged President Obama to speak out against hatred and discrimination during his visit to Europe this week. The president’s…

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Washington Week on Human Rights: May 27, 2014

May 27, 2014

Top News PRESIDENT OBAMA TALKS FOREIGN POLICY President Obama will discuss the administration’s foreign policy and national security priorities during his West Point commencement address on…

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Press

Neo-Nazi Showing in Greek Local Elections Underscores Need for Human Rights Reform

May 19, 2014

Athens, Greece – Human Rights First today called for the United States to renew efforts to combat antisemitism and defend the human rights of migrants and…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: May 12, 2014

May 12, 2014

Top News #BRINGBACKOURGIRLS The search for more than 200 missing girls taken from their school on April 14 continues today as their captors, members of terrorist…

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Fact Sheet

The Greek Elections and Human Rights

May 9, 2014

Golden Dawn, a Greek neo-Nazi party that is under criminal investigation, has vowed to run candidates in local and European Parliament elections later this month.…

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Press

Human Rights First Condemns Antisemitic Actions in Ukrainian City

April 17, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First condemns reports that Jews in Eastern Ukraine are being asked to register with regional authorities or risk deportation. The organization…

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Press

U.S. Should Prioritize Hungarian Relationship as Critical NATO Ally Courts Russia, Erodes Democratic Norms

April 7, 2014

Budapest, Hungary – Human Rights First today urged the Obama Administration to place a greater priority on the U.S.-Hungarian relationship after Sunday’s election that solidified the…

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Fact Sheet

The 2014 Hungarian Elections and Human Rights

March 27, 2014

On April 6, Hungary will hold its parliamentary elections under a revamped electoral system, and starting May 18, it will also hold elections for the…

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Press

Obama Urged to Raise Antisemitism and Hate Crime with Greek Prime Minister

August 7, 2013

Washington, D.C. – In a letter today Human Rights First’s President and CEO Elisa Massimino urged President Obama to raise Greece’s struggles to combat antisemitism and hate crime…

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Letter

Letter Urges Obama to Raise Antisemitism and Hate Crime with Greek Prime Minister

August 6, 2013

In a letter, Human Rights First’s President and CEO Elisa Massimino urged President Obama to raise Greece’s struggles to combat antisemitism and hate crime during his…

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Press

Baer Nomination as Ambassador to OSCE Praised

June 11, 2013

Washington, D.C. – Following President Obama’s announcement that he has nominated Daniel Baer to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation…

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Press

Massimino Testimony Outlines Practical Approaches to Combating Antisemitic Violence

February 27, 2013

Washington, DC – Amidst a recent rise of antisemitic violence in Europe, North America, and the former Soviet Union, Human Rights First’s President and CEO Elisa…

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Testimony

Human Rights First Testimony on Antisemitism

February 26, 2013

Testimony by Human Rights First President and CEO Elisa Massimino before Congress details practical steps the U.S. government can take to effectively combat the problem…

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Elisa Massimino Testifies before Congress on Antisemitism

February 26, 2013

Human Rights First President and CEO Elisa Massimino will testify on Wednesday, February 27 at 9am EST before the House Committee on Foreign Affairs on…

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Press

Toulouse Attacks Highlight Need to Combat Bias-Motivated Crimes

March 19, 2012

Washington, DC – Human Rights First today praised French officials for their response to a horrific shooting at a Jewish school in Toulouse that resulted…

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Blog

Watch: Recent Trends in Antisemitism Around the World

November 9, 2011

Today, Human Rights First President and CEO Elisa Massimino marked International Day Against Fascism and Antisemitism and the 73rd anniversary of Kristallnacht during a State…

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Press

State Department Conversation with Massimino Marks International Day Against Fascism and Antisemitism

November 9, 2011

Washington, DC – Today, Human Rights First President and CEO Elisa Massimino marked International Day Against Fascism and Antisemitism and the 73rd anniversary of Kristallnacht…

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Blog

Combating Religious Intolerance: What Works

July 20, 2011

Last week, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton traveled to Turkey to meet with the head of the Organization of the Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Secretary Clinton…

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Blog

Supporters of Imprisoned Russian Skinheads Retaliate by Firebombing a Moscow Synagogue

July 12, 2011

At 4 a.m. on Tuesday, July 12, young masked men threw Molotov cocktails at the Darchei Shalom synagogue in Moscow. None of the bombs exploded, and no one…

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Blog

Join a Conversation on Antisemitism: Human Rights First at State Department

January 25, 2011

UPDATE: THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED, TO BE RESCHEDULED AT A LATER TIME. This Friday Human Rights First will participate in a conversation with the…

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Blog

Fight Hate Crimes–Donate by 12/31!

December 30, 2010

Persecuted communities should not have to stand alone in their struggles for justice, equality, and protection from violence. This year, we’ve worked to combat antisemitism,…

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Press

Massimino Urges Congress to Champion Smart Solutions to Combat Antisemitism

April 14, 2010

 Washington, DC Human Rights First President and CEO Elisa Massimino today told members of Congress that the United States must champion smart solutions to combat violence…

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Blog

Elisa Massimino Testifies in Congress on Antisemitism

April 14, 2010

Human Rights First President and CEO Elisa Massimino testified today at 2 p.m. before the House Committee on Foreign Affairs on the alarming rise of antisemitism worldwide.…

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Blog

Elisa Massimino Testifies in Congress on Antisemitism

April 14, 2010

Human Rights First President and CEO told members of Congress that the United States must combat violence motivated by antisemitism. Read her testimony, and our press release.…

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Press

Group Urges Newly Elected Hungarian Leaders to Prioritize Fight Against Anti-Roma Violence and Discrimination

April 12, 2010

  New York City, 4/12/10 Human Rights First today called on Hungary’s newly elected authorities to prioritize combating hate crime and racist violence, specifically growing xenophobia, antisemitism…

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Blog

Tad Stahnke: a Voice on Antisemitism at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

August 19, 2009

HRF’s Policy and Program Director Tad Stahnke participated in the Voices on Antisemitism series at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Listen to his statement,…

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Blog

As Kristallnacht is remembered, antisemitic violence still rising in Europe

November 10, 2008

NEW YORK – Tad Stahnke, Director of Human Rights First’s Fighting Discrimination Program and co-author of the group’s recent 2008 Hate Crimes Survey, released the…

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Press

New Report Finds Violent Hate Crime on the Rise

September 24, 2008

NEW YORK–Incidents of violent hate crime targeting a number of minority groups are increasing or occurring at historically high levels in many of the Organization…

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Blog

Civil Society Groups Seek Durban Review that Rejects Hatred

April 28, 2008

GENEVA— Human Rights First joined 94 leading civil society organizations this morning to declare that the United Nations and its organizations and conferences on human…

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Press

Distinguished Panelists Mark Launch Of Hate Crimes Report: Call To Work Together Against Racism, Antisemitism And All Forms of Discrimination

September 14, 2005

NEW YORK, September 14, 2005 — The Simon Wiesenthal Center’s New York Tolerance Center hosted a panel discussion last night about Human Rights First’s new…

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