We found 701 results for "Counterterrorism"
Profile
ELAB Profile Interview: Marvelous Maeze
April 3, 2023
In our second ELAB profile, Nicole Munson interviews Marvelous Maeze, our Executive Co-Chair and Chair of our DEI committee. Marvelous, a research associate at the…
Topics
TARGETED KILLING
September 19, 2022
The U.S. government should square the drone program with respect for human rights. Read More
Blog
An Insider View: January 6th Coup Attempt Demonstrated the Need for Proactive Human Rights Tools and DHS Leadership
June 6, 2022
A year ago the United States experienced the most existential threat to its imperfect democracy since the Civil War. The attempted coup at the U.S.…
Press
Former National Security Officials, Military Leaders Call for Passage of the NO BAN Act
March 5, 2022
More than 50 former diplomatic, national security and military officials call on Congress to overturn Trump Administration’s discriminatory, nationality-based bans on entry from Muslim-majority countries…
Press
After 20 Years, Guantanamo Must Be Closed
January 11, 2022
WASHINGTON — Today, on the 20th anniversary of the first detainees arriving at the Guantanamo Bay detention facility, Human Rights First reiterates its call to end…
Report
20 Years After 9/11: Rights-Based Policies for a New Era
September 9, 2021
On September 11th, 2001, nineteen members of Al Qaeda used hijacked airplanes to murder almost three thousand people. Twenty years later, we are still living in the post-9/11 world. Shortly after the attacks, the…
Press
On 19th Anniversary of the Opening of Guantánamo, Human Rights First Calls for Its Closure
January 11, 2021
Washington, D.C. — Nineteen years ago, the first detainees arrived at the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay as part of an effort to subvert the…
Press
Former National Security Officials, Military Leaders Call for Passage of the NO BAN Act
March 5, 2020
More than 50 former diplomatic, national security and military officials call on Congress to overturn Trump Administration’s discriminatory, nationality-based bans on entry from Muslim-majority countries…
Blog
There Are Better Options for Detained ISIS Fighters than Guantanamo
September 12, 2019
By Joy Bagwell According to recent reports, the Trump Administration is working to help the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) find a sustainable way to deal with…
Fact Sheet
The Problems with the 2001 AUMF and How to Fix Them
July 3, 2019
Within days of the 9/11 attacks, Congress passed an authorization for use of military force (AUMF) against those who “planned, authorized, committed, or aided the terrorist…
Press
New Report Documents ISIS Recruitment in Egypt’s Prison System
February 25, 2019
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today released a new report documenting ISIS recruitment in Egypt’s prison system. Like a Fire in a Forest: ISIS Recruitment in Egypt’s Prisons is based…
Press
National Emergency Harms those Seeking Protection
February 15, 2019
Washington, D.C.—Following today’s declaration of a national emergency to build a wall on the southern border, former director of the National Counterterrorism Center, Matthew Olsen, issued…
Blog
Trump’s Extreme Hypocrisy: Venezuela & Egypt
February 7, 2019
Earlier this week, the U.S. Embassy in Cairo decided to weigh in on the crisis in Venezuela, tweeting that the Maduro government is “destroying” the country…
Issue Brief
The Strategic Benefits of Minimizing Civilian Harm in Counterterrorism Strikes
January 22, 2019
In the fight against terrorism, minimizing and addressing civilian harm resulting from U.S. strikes is one of our most powerful weapons for successfully defeating terrorist…
Issue Brief
Detaining and Prosecuting Terrorism Suspects
January 4, 2019
Introduction As the armed conflict with various organized terrorist groups stretches into its sixteenth year, the United States continues to wrestle with the most effective…
Blog
Fit For Court? Another Medical Emergency in Guantanamo
November 19, 2018
By Elaina Stephenson Earlier this month, I traveled to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba to observe the military proceedings in the Abd al Hadi al Iraqi case.…
Blog
Nashiri Trial Moves Forward, Despite Possible Ethics Violations
October 24, 2018
By Joy Bagwell Earlier this month the Court of Military Commissions Review (CMCR) handed down a decision permitting Abd al-Rahim al-Nashiri’s trial at Guantanamo Bay…
Blog
There Are Better Options for Detained ISIS Fighters than Guantanamo
September 12, 2018
By Joy Bagwell According to recent reports, the Trump Administration is working to help the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) find a sustainable way to deal with…
Blog
September 11 Trial Update: New Decision Highlights the Strategic Consequences of Torture
September 7, 2018
Last week, a Guantanamo military commission judge ruled that statements made by five detainees suspected of being involved in the September 11 attacks are inadmissible in court…
Press
Trump Administration Considers Drastic Cut in Refugee Resettlement
August 2, 2018
Washington, D.C.—In response to reports that the Trump Administration is considering reducing the number of refugees admitted to the United States to 25,000 for fiscal…
Letter
Letter to Senators in Opposition to Nomination of Gina Haspel to Director of the Central Intelligence Agency
May 8, 2018
Dear Senator: Even in times of crisis, the United States prides itself on remaining committed to American values and universal ideals. This means that our…
Blog
Trump Administration’s Abdication of Leadership Facilitates a Shameful Farce of an Election in Egypt
March 23, 2018
The negative global impact of the Trump Administration’s disturbing affinity with authoritarianism can be seen in the lack of integrity and fairness in the forthcoming presidential…
Press
Administration Urged to Provide Transparency on Use of Force, Civilian Casualties
March 8, 2018
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today, urged President Trump to use congressionally-mandated reporting requirements as an opportunity to provide much-needed transparency on the United States’ use of force…
Letter
Letter to President Trump on NDAA Reporting Requirement
March 7, 2018
President Donald Trump The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Washington, DC 20500 Dear President Trump: I write to urge you to provide Congress and…
Blog
GTMO Periodic Review Board Assesses Abdul Rabbani
March 1, 2018
By Kate Holcombe This week, Abdul Rahim Ghulam Rabbani became the third Guantanamo detainee to receive a review by the Periodic Review Board (PRB) since President Trump took office.…
Press
Nashiri Military Commission Case Indefinitely Suspended
February 16, 2018
Washington, D.C.—Following the indefinite suspension of the military commission proceedings against Abd al-Rahim al-Nashiri, Rita Siemion issued the following statement: “Today’s decision is a confirmation…
Fact Sheet
Myth v. Fact: Trying Terror Suspects in Federal Courts
February 14, 2018
Myth: Terrorists have traditionally been tried in military commissions. Fact: Federal civilian criminal courts have convicted more than 660 individuals on terrorism-related charges since 9/11. Military…
Fact Sheet
Federal Courts Continue to Take Lead in Counterterrorism Prosecutions
February 14, 2018
Number of individuals convicted of terrorism-related offenses in federal courts since 9/11: 668 Number of district courts where terrorism-related convictions have been secured: 67 Number of…
Blog
The Passing of Asma Jahangir
February 13, 2018
Human Rights First mourns the passing of the courageous, pioneering Pakistani lawyer and human rights defender, Asma Jahangir. We are proud of our long history of…
Issue Brief
Law Enforcement Interrogation of Terrorism Suspects
February 1, 2018
When terrorism suspects are captured or arrested, it is important for the United States to learn all that it can from these individuals to prevent…
Press
Trump to Sign Order Keeping Guantanamo Open
January 26, 2018
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today condemned President Trump’s reported decision to sign an executive order to keep open the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, a…
Press
Ahead of Egypt Trip, Pence Urged to Press on Terrorism, Persecution of Christians and LGBT Community
January 18, 2018
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First calls on Vice President Mike Pence to urge Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to adopt effective, comprehensive strategies to combat the threat of terrorism, to end discriminatory…
Press
DOJ Report Omits Data, Undermines Federal Courts, and Demonizes Immigrants
January 16, 2018
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today condemned a new Department of Justice (DOJ) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) report on terrorism related offenses and immigration, for its…
Press
Khattala Convicted of Terrorism in U.S. Federal Court
November 28, 2017
Washington. D.C.—Human Rights First said that today’s conviction of Ahmed Abu Khattala of terrorism charges in connection with the 2012 attack on the U.S. embassy…
Press
Defense Authorization Takes Important Steps Toward Oversight & Transparency in Counterterrorism Operations
November 16, 2017
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today applauded a number of measures in the 2018 National Defense Authorization Act that will enhance national security by strengthening protections…
Blog
Meltdown at GTMO: Government Spying and Locking Up A Marine General
November 3, 2017
By Patricia Stottlemyer I’m heading to Guantanamo to observe next week’s proceedings in the case of accused USS Cole bomber Abd al Rahim al Nashiri. While it’s not…
Press
Statement from Former Commandant of Marine Corps on Sending NY Suspect to Guantanamo
November 1, 2017
Washington, D.C.—In response to President Trump’s remarks that he would consider sending Sayfullo Saipov, the accused perpetrator of yesterday’s attack in New York, to Guantanamo…
Fact Sheet
Statement for the Record on the Authorization for the Use of Military Force
October 30, 2017
The recent deaths of 4 U.S. service members in Niger have prompted members of Congress to give renewed attention to the scope of war…
Blog
Benghazi Trial Enters Second Week
October 19, 2017
By Sara Sirota Last week the trial of Ahmed Abu Khattala, alleged mastermind of the 2012 Benghazi attack, continued before a Washington, D.C. federal court.…
Blog
Successful Terrorism Detention and Trial Policy Respects Rights
October 17, 2017
Recent reports of the capture of an American citizen who fought for ISIS in Syria, a string of successful and high-profile terrorism trials in U.S.…
Press
Supreme Court Declines to Hear Nashiri Case
October 16, 2017
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First expressed disappointment in today’s decision by the Supreme Court not to take up the case of Abd Al-Rahim Hussain Mohammed al-Nashiri,…
Blog
Benghazi Trial Clear Case of Federal Court Superiority to GTMO
October 11, 2017
By Sara Sirota Last week, Libyan national Ahmed Abu Khattala’s trial for his alleged participation in the 2012 Benghazi attacks began in federal court. American…
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…
Blog
France Should Not Turn Emergency Measures into Ordinary Law
September 29, 2017
By Erika Asgeirsson This week, the French National Assembly debated a controversial anti-terror bill that would enshrine into ordinary law several restrictions on civil liberties that were originally introduced…
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…
Press
Former NCTC Director Olsen to Testify on AUMF
July 25, 2017
Washington, D.C.—As the House Foreign Affairs Committee considers issued related to the authorization for the use of military force (AUMF), former director of the National Counterterrorism Center…
Testimony
Matthew Olsen Testimony on “Authorization for the Use of Military Force and Current Terrorist Threats”
July 25, 2017
Thank you, Chairman Royce, Ranking Member Engel, and distinguished members of the committee. I am honored to have this opportunity to appear before you to…
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…
Blog
Trump Attends Bastille Day Celebration in Paris
July 14, 2017
By Emma Bernstein Today, President Trump attended a Bastille Day celebration in Paris. This year, France’s national holiday also marks the first anniversary of the terrorist…
Blog
Sessions Visits Gitmo, but NGOs are Excluded
July 7, 2017
Attorney General Jeff Sessions on Friday visited the U.S. military prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Meanwhile, non-governmental organization (NGO) observers were excluded from a hearing in the…
Blog
Trump’s Budget Will Harm National Security
June 22, 2017
By Rosalind Faulkner The White House website proclaims that President Trump’s budget “makes national defense a priority by increasing defense spending by $54 billion,” and “puts Americans’…
Fact Sheet
The Problems with the AUMF and How to Fix Them
June 19, 2017
Introduction Within days of the 9/11 attacks, Congress passed an authorization for use of military force (AUMF) against those who “planned, authorized, committed, or aided…
Blog
Trump Should Use His Special Relationship with Sisi to Push for Essential Policy Change
June 2, 2017
President Trump and President Sisi of Egypt like to exchange compliments and to make grand statements about their resolute stance against terrorism. Speaking after the horrific attack on Christians traveling…
Press
Retired Military Leaders Submit Brief in al-Nashiri Supreme Court Case
June 1, 2017
Washington, D.C.—On behalf of 12 retired generals and admirals of the United States Armed Forces, Human Rights First yesterday filed an amicus brief, with the pro bono assistance of Davis…
Press
McMaster Urged to Strengthen, Not Weaken, Use of Force Standards
June 1, 2017
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today called on General H.R. McMaster, national security advisor to President Donald Trump, to strengthen, not weaken, existing standards for the…
Amicus Brief
Amicus Brief: Supreme Court—Abd al-Rahim al-Nashiri v. Donald J, Trump, et al.
June 1, 2017
The executive branch is attempting to use a military commission, rather than the readily available federal courts, to try Petitioner for involvement in the bombing…
Letter
Letter to National Security Advisor McMaster on Possible Changes on the Use of Force in Counterterrorism Operations
June 1, 2017
June 1, 2017 Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster, Jr., USA Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., NW…
Fact Sheet
Credible Fear Screening and Fraud Safeguards
May 23, 2017
The United States has, over decades, established rigorous, interagency procedures to vet and screen asylum seekers. Human Rights First has detailed the asylum system’s fraud…
Blog
When Hate Becomes Mainstream
May 19, 2017
By Erika Asgeirsson On Sunday May 21, Geert Wilders, the controversial Dutch far-right politician, is scheduled to speak in Los Angles at the annual dinner of the…
Blog
President Trump’s Foreign Policy Threatens “Freedom, Justice, and Peace in the World”
May 10, 2017
In remarks to State Department employees on May 3, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson downgraded the place of universal values in U.S. foreign policy. He said that…
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…
Press
Human Rights First Adds Four Distinguished Leaders to its Board of Directors
April 26, 2017
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today announced that former Deputy Secretary of State Tony Blinken, Academy Award–winning director Gavin Hood, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff…
Blog
Time Runs Out: Minor Charges Dropped in 9/11 Case
April 12, 2017
By Camille Marrero The clock is ticking. Although the memory of the 9/11 attacks remains vivid in the minds of many Americans, it has already…
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…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: April 10, 2017
April 10, 2017
By Mary Elizabeth Margolis Top Items United States Responds with Force to Crisis in Syria Following U.S. missile strikes against a Syrian airfield on Thursday evening,…
Blog
Trump’s Failure to Raise Human Rights with Sisi Harms U.S. Interests
April 4, 2017
As expected, President Trump offered no public criticism of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s human rights record during their meeting at the White House today. White House…
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…
Blog
Former Businessman and Oldest Detainee Seeks Release from Gitmo
March 21, 2017
By Camille Marrero Today Saifullah Abdullah Paracha went before the Guantanamo Periodic Review Board (PRB) to plead his case for release from the detention facility.…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: March 20, 2017
March 20, 2017
By Mary Elizabeth Margolis Top Items Neil Gorsuch Confirmation Hearings Confirmation hearings begin today in the Senate for Judge Neil Gorsuch, President Trump’s nominee to…
Blog
President Trump’s Claim that His Ban Will Keep America Safe from Terrorism is False
March 17, 2017
This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post President Trump used a rally for his supporters in Nashville, Tennessee on March 15 to rail…
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…
Blog
The Trump Administration Should Forge a New Relationship with Egypt, One Based on Both Security and Human Rights
March 14, 2017
The Trump Administration is ramping up its efforts to strengthen security cooperation with Egypt. This is probably the right thing to do, provided it’s coupled…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: March 13, 2017
March 13, 2017
By Mary Elizabeth Margolis TOP ITEMS President’s Budget Request President Trump is expected to submit his budget request to Congress on Thursday. The administration has…
Press
Former U.S. Officials Reject Revised Refugee Ban Executive Order
March 10, 2017
Washington, DC – A group of more than 100 former U.S. government officials today wrote to President Trump to express concern over the March 6…
Letter
Statement by Former U.S. Government Officials on Use of Force
March 10, 2017
March 10, 2017 The Honorable James Mattis Secretary of Defense Department of Defense 1000 Defense Pentagon Washington, DC 20301-1000 Dear Secretary Mattis: We, the undersigned,…
Press
Revised Executive Order on Refugees Continues to Betray Ideals, Put America at Risk
March 6, 2017
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today condemned President Trump’s executive order signed today suspending the refugee resettlement program, and banning the issuance of new visas and…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: March 6, 2017
March 6, 2017
TOP ITEMS Revised Refugee Ban President Trump today signed a new executive order suspending the refugee resettlement program, and banning the issuance of new visas…
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…
Press
Human Rights First Welcomes Ambassador Haley’s support for U.N. Counterterrorism Reform
February 28, 2017
New York City—Human Rights First today welcomed U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley’s support for the U.N. secretary-general’s proposals to reform…
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.…
Press
Trump Administration Should Prosecute Terrorism Suspects in Federal Courts
February 14, 2017
Washington, D.C.—In response to reports that President Trump is considering whether to send an alleged al Qaeda member to the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay,…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: February 13, 2017
February 13, 2017
By Mary Elizabeth Margolis Top Items Ruling Upholds Stay on Muslim Ban On Thursday the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a ruling that upheld the…
Press
Revised Executive Order Backs off Dangerous Black Site Proposal, Keeps Guantanamo Open
February 8, 2017
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First condemned a draft executive order released today by The New York Times that would continue to hold individuals at the detention facility at…
Blog
New Draft Executive Order: Bad on Guantanamo, Silent on Torture
February 8, 2017
This morning the New York Times released a draft executive order from the Trump Administration that calls for continued use of the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The…
Fact Sheet
Myth v. Fact: Trump’s Refugee and Immigration Executive Order
February 7, 2017
On January 27, 2017, President Trump issued an executive order that: 1) Bars Syrian refugees from coming to the United States indefinitely; 2) Bars nationals from…
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…
Blog
Trump Administration Should Avoid Anti-Muslim Bias in its Counter-Extremism Program
February 3, 2017
By Neil Hicks This is crossposted from The Huffington Post. Proposals from the Trump administration to change the countering violent extremism (CVE) program started under President Obama to…
Fact Sheet
Former U.S. National Security and Military Leaders Oppose Refugee and Immigration Ban
February 2, 2017
On January 27, 2017, President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled, “Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry Into the United States.” The order…
Blog
Eight Ways Trump’s Executive Order on Immigration Makes Us Less Safe
February 2, 2017
This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post In issuing his executive order immediately banning refugees and hundreds of thousands of Muslim travelers from the United…
Blog
Bully
February 2, 2017
By Sharon Kelly McBride There’s a name for the child who picks on the weakest kid in hopes of getting attention. He’s a bully. Thirteen days into…
Refugees Strengthen America: Q & A
February 1, 2017
Q. Should we be worried a terrorist can get into the United States through the resettlement program by pretending to be a refugee? A. Refugees must…
Fact Sheet
Refugee Resettlement – Security Screening Information
February 1, 2017
Refugee Resettlement Screening Process The United States screens and vets refugees more stringently than any other group allowed to enter the country. STAGE ONE: The U.N.…
Press
“Extreme Vetting” Executive Order Targets Vulnerable Refugees
January 27, 2017
New York City— Human Rights First today condemned an executive order on the entry of refugees that will block and derail resettlement of thoroughly screened refugees,…
Press
Executive Orders Halting Refugee Resettlement Dangerous to National Security
January 25, 2017
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged the Trump Administration to refrain from issuing executive orders that would suspend the U.S. refugee resettlement program and end U.S.…
Blog
Haley Concerned about Refugees, but Lacks Information on Vetting
January 20, 2017
Governor Nikki Haley, President Trump’s nominee for U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, expressed concern for refugees during her Senate confirmation hearing this Wednesday, noting…
Blueprint
How To Close Guantanamo
January 17, 2017
Summary President Obama should provide sustained leadership to increase the momentum to transfer prisoners out of Guantanamo and close the facility. Sustained leadership Communicate to…
Blog
Tillerson and a Values-based U.S. Foreign Policy
January 13, 2017
Senate confirmation hearings are poor vehicles for finding out the actual views of nominees. Would-be cabinet secretaries know that it’s wise to say as little…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: January 9, 2017
January 9, 2017
By Mary Elizabeth Margolis Top Items Confirmation Hearings Confirmation hearings will begin in the Senate this week for several nominees for key cabinet positions in…
Press
Following Berlin Attack Germany Response Should Reflect Sustainable Counterterrorism Steps that Uphold Human Rights
December 20, 2016
New York City—Human Rights First today sends its deepest condolences to the victims of the terrorist attack that killed a dozen people at a Christmas market…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: December 12, 2016
December 12, 2016
Top Items Human Rights Summit Tomorrow Human Rights First will host its fifth annual Human Rights Summit at the Newseum in Washington, D.C. The afternoon…
Blog
Congress Starting to Push Back against Russian Interference
December 12, 2016
By Erika Asgeirsson After a public back-and-forth between the CIA and President-elect Donald Trump over the role of Russian hackers in the U.S. election, a bipartisan group of senators…
Blog
Guantanamo 9/11 Trial Continues To Be A Slow-Motion Train Wreck
December 7, 2016
This blog is cross-posted from Huffington Post. It’s no secret that the Guantanamo Bay detention center is a huge government money-suck. It costs more than $7.5…
Press
President Obama Outlines Counterterrorism Approach Rooted in Human Rights
December 6, 2016
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today welcomed President Obama’s speech on his administration’s approach to counterterrorism, noting that the policies outlined protect the United States’ national…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: December 5, 2016
December 6, 2016
Top Items National Security Today the Obama Administration released a presidential report and memorandum, as well as supporting documents, detailing the administration’s policy and legal…
Press
Obama Administration Releases Presidential Report on Counterterrorism Framework
December 5, 2016
Washington, D.C.— Human Rights First today said that the Obama Administration’s release of a presidential report and memorandum—and related policy documents—on the legal and policy frameworks for counterterrorism operations, demonstrates…
Blog
Barring Refugees Would Hurt National Security
December 5, 2016
This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post: Just days before the nation celebrated Thanksgiving, an AP photographer snapped a picture of Kris Kobach’s proposed…
Blog
Letter to Obama: No Return to NSEERS under Trump
November 23, 2016
This week, Human Rights First joined nearly 200 other human rights, civil liberties, education, social justice, and inter-faith organizations in urging the Obama Administration to take immediate action to…
Blog
Disregarding Universal Values in Middle East Policy Will Bring More Instability
November 18, 2016
Early indications suggest that the incoming Trump Administration will shape U.S. policy in the Middle East around closer cooperation with regional authoritarian regimes. This would…
Blog
Top 3 Myths About the U.S. Refugee Resettlement System Dispelled
November 15, 2016
By Joe Jenkins Today we are living through one of the greatest humanitarian crises of our time. Over 65 million people are displaced around the world due…
Blog
The Deterioration of Religious Freedom: Tajikistan’s Attempt to Counter Violent Extremism
November 3, 2016
By Alexandra Funk Religious freedom is essential to a functioning, harmonious society. In Tajikistan, Islam has been integral to its culture and politics since the…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: October 17, 2016
October 17, 2016
Top Items Guantanamo Human Rights First today praised the repatriation of Guantanamo detainee Mohamedou Slahi to Mauritania, and encourages the Obama Administration to keep up…
Press
Human Rights First Urges President Obama to Take Action to Secure Human Rights Legacy
October 13, 2016
Washington, D.C. – As President Obama enters the last 100 days of his term in office, Human Rights First today urged him to take specific actions…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: October 11, 2016
October 11, 2016
Top Items United Nations Last week the U.N. Security Council voted to elect former prime minister of Portugal António Guterres as the next Secretary-General of the United…
Press
Administration Urged to Implement Executive Order to Increase Transparency of Drone Strikes
October 6, 2016
Washington, D.C.—In a letter sent today Human Rights First, along with 11 human rights, civil liberties, and faith organizations, urged President Obama to take steps to implement…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: September 26, 2016
September 26, 2016
Top Items Global Refugee Crisis On Wednesday, the Senate Judiciary Immigration and National Interest Subcommittee will hold a hearing to examine the administration’s FY2017 refugee…
Blog
Past Failures Should Persuade the Next U.S. Administration to Prioritize Human Rights in Efforts to Counter Violent Extremism
September 16, 2016
The fifteenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks has prompted much retrospective analysis of U.S. counterterrorism policy since September 2001. The closing months of the Obama…
Press
Gen. Lehnert Urges Congress to Reject Legislation Prohibiting Guantanamo Transfers
September 13, 2016
Washington, D.C.—In a letter sent today to members of Congress, Major General Michael R. Lehnert, first commanding officer at Guantanamo Bay, urged legislators to reject a bill…
Blog
Making Up for Lost Time: The Need to Support Civil Society and Security in Central Asia
September 12, 2016
On August 3, Secretary Kerry met with foreign ministers of the five Central Asian nations (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan) as the prelude to the…
Blog
Ten Years of Injustice: Over 90 Percent of Gitmo Detainees Imprisoned for over a Decade
September 8, 2016
Ten years ago this week, a batch of men arrived at the U.S. military prison facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The CIA had held these…
Fact Sheet
Ten Steps the Administration Can Take to Improve Transparency and Accountability for Drone Strikes and Targeted Killing
September 1, 2016
THE OBAMA ADMINISTRATION has repeatedly committed to increased transparency and accountability, including with respect to national security, counterterrorism, and military operations. The administration has recently taken important…
Blog
Abu Zubaydah Gets His PRB
August 23, 2016
This morning, a Gitmo detainee not seen in public since the CIA captured him in 2002 received his Periodic Review Board hearing. Abu Zubaydah, a 45-year-old Palestinian, has…
Blog
Opponents to Gitmo Transfers Distort the Facts
August 19, 2016
Last week’s transfer of 15 detainees—12 Yemenis and three Afghans—from the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay to the United Arab Emirates was the largest detainee…
Press
Obama Administration Discloses Previously Classified Procedures for Authorizing Force Outside “Areas of Active Hostilities”
August 7, 2016
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First is calling yesterday’s release of the Obama Administration’s official policy document governing approval procedures for counterterrorism strikes – including by…
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…
Fact Sheet
France’s State of Emergency and Long-term Solutions to Combating Extremism
July 15, 2016
Following the tragic terrorist attack in Nice, French President Francois Hollande announced that the national state of emergency originally put in place following November’s terrorist…
Blog
Former Federal Agents Urge Supreme Court to Hear Case Involving FBI Torture
July 14, 2016
By Molly Wooldridge Last Wednesday, three former federal agents from the FBI and NCIS urged the Supreme Court to take up the case of Meshal…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: July 11, 2016
July 11, 2016
TOP ITEMS Global Refugee Crisis This week, the House Committee on Appropriations will markup the Fiscal Year 2017 State and Foreign Operations Bill. In its…
Blog
Obama’s Targeted Killing Program and the Need for Transparency
July 8, 2016
By Molly Wooldridge Last Friday the Obama Administration released its estimate of how many people it has killed in airstrikes outside of Afghanistan, Iraq, and…
Blog
Updated Standards Call for More Targeted Counterterrorism Measures, Protect Nonprofits
July 8, 2016
When governments undertake counterterrorism measures, they may unjustifiably restrict the work of human rights organizations and other nonprofits. But now NGOs should be better protected.…
Blog
Updated Standards Call for More Targeted Counterterrorism Measures, Protect Nonprofits
July 8, 2016
When governments undertake counterterrorism measures, they may unjustifiably restrict the work of human rights organizations and other nonprofits. But now NGOs should be better protected.…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: July 5, 2016
July 5, 2016
TOP ITEMS Bahrain This week President Obama travels to Poland, where he and other world leaders will attend the July 8-9 NATO summit. Human Rights…
Blog
Increasing the Pace of Refugee Resettlement Does Not Cut Corners on Security
July 1, 2016
As the Washington Times recently reported, the United States reached the 5,000 arrivals mark for Syrian refugees resettled to the United States in fiscal year…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: June 20, 2016
June 21, 2016
Top News World Refugee Day Today, to mark World Refugee Day, 28 of the nation’s most prominent national security leaders, retired generals and admirals, and former government…
Press
On World Refugee Day National Security Leaders, Retired Military Leaders, and Former Government Leaders Pledge Support for Refugee Protection
June 20, 2016
Washington, D.C. – In honor of World Refugee Day, 28 of the nation’s most prominent national security leaders, retired military leaders, and former government officials today publicly called on…
Blog
U.S. Government Should Respond Strongly, Immediately to Al Wefaq Suspension
June 15, 2016
Bahrain’s government suspended the main opposition group, Al Wefaq, on Tuesday. Its headquarters are shuttered, its assets are frozen, all activities are halted, and its website is…
Blog
Weak Stance on Human Rights in the Middle East Threatens to Tarnish President Obama’s Legacy
June 8, 2016
This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post: The Obama Administration’s passive response to the mounting human rights crisis and growing instability in Egypt is…
Blog
State Department Counterterrorism Priorities for Bahrain Miss the Mark
June 3, 2016
Sometimes what isn’t said speaks louder than what is, and that’s certainly true of the State Department’s 2015 Country Reports on Terrorism released this week. The section…
Blog
Eroding Restrictions on Civic Space, Piece by Piece and Bit by Bit
June 2, 2016
The civil society and human rights community may be wearied by attacks by authoritarian (or authoritarian-inspired) regimes. And we may be worn out by the…
Blog
Saudi Arabia’s Record of Torturing Those Who Dare to Critique It
May 24, 2016
The U.N. committee charged with overseeing the implementation of the Convention Against Torture has released its report on Saudi Arabia. Unsurprisingly, it is “extremely concerned” by reports…
Blog
French State of Emergency Should Not Be Extended Again
May 17, 2016
By Annie Glasser and Rebecca Sheff Almost exactly six months after the November 2015 Paris attacks, the French Senate voted last Tuesday to extend the…
Blog
Will New Anti-Corruption Efforts Strengthen the Fight Against Violent Extremism?
May 13, 2016
This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post: Secretary of State John Kerry and dozens of heads of state attended yesterday’s London Anti-Corruption Summit, which…
Blog
What Voters Don’t Know about Refugees
May 6, 2016
The Guardian reported on a recent Pew poll that found 85 percent of Donald Trump supporters believe that refugees from Iraq and Syria are a major threat to…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: May 2, 2016
May 2, 2016
Top News Guantanamo As the administration works toward its goal of closing the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, it has scheduled two more Periodic…
Blog
Senator Kirk’s Pro-Gitmo Bill Ignores the Facts, and the Experts
May 2, 2016
Over the weekend Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL) wrote an op-ed titled, “Why Gitmo Can’t Be Closed,” promoting his bill that would tighten the already unreasonable restrictions…
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…
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…
Blog
U.S. Allies’ Behavior Undermines the Goals of GCC Summit
April 20, 2016
By Leah Schulz Today President Obama arrives in Riyadh where he will meet with King Salman before participating in a summit with leaders of the Gulf…
Blog
President Obama’s Last Chance to Stand up for Human Rights in Saudi Arabia
April 19, 2016
This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post: On Thursday, President Obama will visit Saudi Arabia to attend a meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council,…
Letter
Letter to President Obama Urging him to Address Human Rights in Saudi Arabia
April 18, 2016
April 18, 2016 Dear President Obama: I am writing to urge you to address the vital issue of human rights during your forthcoming visit to…
Blog
The Full Picture: Refugee screening is thorough and safe
April 18, 2016
By Gregory Felder Those who fear that accepting Syrian refugees will make America less safe don’t have the full picture on the refugee resettlement process. In…
Blog
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…
Fact Sheet
Human Rights Defenders and Political Prisoners in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain
April 14, 2016
Saudi Arabia Waleed Abu al-Khair: Imprisoned in Saudi Arabia on Politicized Charges Waleed Abu al-Khair is a Saudi attorney and human rights defender and the…
Blog
A Welcome Step Toward Clarity and Transparency by the New State Department Legal Advisor, but Speeches Aren’t Enough
April 6, 2016
By Rita Siemion Last Friday, the new State Department Legal Adviser, Brian Egan, gave a speech on “International Law, Legal Diplomacy, and the Counter-ISIL Campaign” at the…
Blog
Senator Graham’s Recipe for Failure in Egypt
April 5, 2016
This blog is cross-posted from the Huffington Post: “If Egypt fails, every problem in the Mideast becomes a hundred times worse,” observed Senator Lindsay Graham while…
Press
In Testimony, Human Rights First Urges U.S. to Protect National Security while Upholding Human Rights of Refugees
March 23, 2016
Washington, D.C.—In testimony before the House of Representatives, Human Rights First’s Eleanor Acer urged the U.S. government to take steps to protect our national security while also…
Blog
Designating the Muslim Brotherhood as a Terrorist Organization Risks Fueling More Terrorism
March 17, 2016
The effort to designate the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization, currently being pursued in the House of Representatives through a bill that passed through…
Press
White House Urged to Increase Transparency of Targeted Killing Program
March 16, 2016
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged President Obama to take steps to increase the transparency of the targeted killing program. The call came in a letter from…
Letter
Letter to President Obama on Targeted Killing Transparency
March 16, 2016
Dear President Obama: Since your first days in office, you have emphasized the importance of transparency to a strong democracy and accountable government. Over the…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: March 14, 2016
March 14, 2016
Top News Targeted Killing Last week, the Obama Administration announced that it will publish civilian and combatant casualty assessments for lethal counterterrorism strikes outside areas of…
Blog
Blasphemy Laws Fuel the Ideology of Violent Extremism
March 11, 2016
This blog is cross-posted from the Huffington Post: As the United States expands its efforts to counter the threat presented by violent extremism, it continues to emphasize…
Blog
Secretary Kerry Should Support Accountability for Violations by Saudi Forces in Yemen
March 8, 2016
U.S. support for Saudi Arabia’s war in Yemen has been well-documented. As the conflict rages on, the civilian death toll continues to rise, and effective…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: March 7, 2016
March 7, 2016
Top News Baby Barristers Last week, The Washington Post reported that Judge John H. Weil, a senior-immigration judge responsible for training other judges, claimed in a deposition…
Press
Obama Administration Increases Transparency of Targeted Killing Program
March 7, 2016
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First welcomed an announcement from the Obama Administration today that it will publish civilian and combatant casualty assessments for lethal counterterrorism strikes…
Blog
Colin Powell Wants to Close Gitmo
February 25, 2016
The Pentagon released its plan for closing the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, setting off a renewed debate over the prison and the detainees there. Former Secretary…
Letter
General Charles Krulak Urges Members of Congress to Close Guantanamo
February 23, 2016
Dear Member of Congress: General Charles C. Krulak, USMC (Ret.) I represent a coalition of more than 60 retired generals and admirals of the United…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: February 22, 2016
February 22, 2016
Top News Guantanamo Tomorrow is the statutory deadline for the Obama Administration to give Congress its plan for closing the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The…
Blog
American Citizens Face Unfair UAE Trial
February 12, 2016
By Leah Schulz A year and a half ago UAE security forces arrested Libyan-Americans Mohamed and Kamal Eldarat. The father and son were held in secret, tortured, and repeatedly denied…
Blog
Kerry’s Parallel Universe
February 11, 2016
This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post. Secretary of State John Kerry has an unfortunate affliction. He appears incapable of making public comments about…
Blog
Kuwait Cybercrime Law Curbs Freedom of Expression
February 3, 2016
By Leah Schulz Kuwait’s Cybercrime Law No. 63, approved by its National Assembly in June, imposes severe restrictions on freedom of speech that deteriorate an…
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…
Blog
UAE is Questionable Partner for CVE Initiatives
February 1, 2016
Repressive practices foster the very grievances that drive violent extremism and threaten peace and stability. President Obama knows this, and has said it many times.…
Blog
U.S. Resettlement is No Cake Walk for Syrian Refugees
January 27, 2016
By Greg Felder The terror attacks in Paris and San Bernardino sparked a widespread debate on how the United States should handle refugees, particularly those…
Blueprint
How to Navigate Egypt’s Enduring Human Rights Crisis
January 25, 2016
On the fifth anniversary of the mass Tahrir Square protests that ousted former President Mubarak, Egyptians are suffering severe repression and political instability. As this…
Press
Human Rights First Praises Senate Defeat of American SAFE Act
January 20, 2016
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today praised the Senate for voting against a motion to proceed on the American Security Against Foreign Enemies Act (H.R.…
Transcript
Media Briefing on American “SAFE” Act
January 20, 2016
Transcript January 19, 2016: MEDIA BRIEFING CALL: Media Briefing on American “SAFE” Act Participants Matthew Olsen, Former Director of the National Counterterrorism Center Ryan Crocker,…
Event
How to Navigate Egypt’s Enduring Human Rights Crisis: Blueprint for U.S. Government Policy
January 20, 2016
Date: January 27, 2016 – 8:00pm to 9:30pm DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED UNTIL WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27th, 2016 On the fifth anniversary of the…
Press
American SAFE Act Undermines Security Interests and American Values
January 19, 2016
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today urged the Senate to reject the American Security Against Foreign Enemies Act (H.R. 4038), a bill that would…
Blog
How the Obama Administration Could Tackle Drivers of Violent Extremism in Africa
January 15, 2016
In the State of the Union address, President Obama scarcely mentioned Africa, apart from raising the concern that “instability” could create “safe havens for new…
Press
UN Secretary General’s Plan of Action on Violent Extremism Challenges U.S. Leadership on Human Rights
January 14, 2016
New York City – Human Rights First welcomes the United Nations Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism, and calls on the U.S. government to embrace…
Press
Administration to Transfer 10 Guantanamo Detainees
January 12, 2016
Once Completed, Fewer than 100 Detainees to be Held for First Time Since Detention Facility Opened Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today praises the reported transfer of ten detainees…
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…
Blog
Any AUMF against ISIL Should be Clear and Specific
December 11, 2015
In the wake of the recent terrorist attacks from Beirut to San Bernardino, President Obama stood in the Oval Office on Sunday night and urged Congress to…
Blog
Retired Military Leaders Call for Trial by Federal Court in Al-Nashiri Case
December 11, 2015
On Monday, December 7, in an amicus brief coordinated by Human Rights First and filed by Morrison & Foerster LLP, 14 retired generals and admirals…
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,…
Issue Brief
Vetting, Security and Fraud Screening in Asylum Process
December 4, 2015
In the aftermath of World War II, the United States was a leader in building an international system for the protection of refugees, to ensure…
Blog
Problematic Partners in the Fight against Violent Extremism
December 1, 2015
To curb the threat of terrorism, the Obama Administration launched an aggressive series of “countering violent extremism” (CVE) conferences and conversations this year. At each…
Fact Sheet
Fact Sheet: American Security Against Foreign Enemies Act
December 1, 2015
American Security Against Foreign Enemies Act Would Bring Resettlement of Iraqi and Syrian Refugees to a Standstill Bill Would Also Abandon Iraqis who worked with…
Press
Former INS Commissioners Urge Senate to Reject Bill that would Halt Resettlement of Syrian Refugees
November 23, 2015
Washington, D.C.—Former Commissioners of Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) Doris Meissner and James W. Ziglar today urged senators to uphold America’s commitment to protecting the…
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…
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…
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…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: October 13, 2015
October 13, 2015
Top News Guantanamo President Obama will soon decide whether to make good on his promise to veto the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year…
Blog
Transfer of British detainee triggers U.K. Prime Minister’s call for Gitmo’s closure
September 28, 2015
By Alice Debarre Today, British Prime Minister David Cameron welcomed the upcoming return of British resident, Shaker Aamer, emphasizing that he was “pleased this has…
Blueprint
The Role of Human Rights in Countering Violent Extremism
September 25, 2015
A COMPILATION OF BLUEPRINTS FOR U.S. GOVERNMENT POLICY Introduction On the sidelines of the annual United Nations General Assembly meeting, the United States is sponsoring…
Press
President Obama Urged to Underscore Link Between Repression and Rising Violent Extremism During Leaders’ Summit
September 25, 2015
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First and the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies (CIHRS) today urged President Obama to press for firm commitments from…
Letter
Letter to President Obama in Preparation for King Salman Visit
September 2, 2015
September 2, 2015 The Honorable Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20500 Dear President Obama: I write to urge that…
Press
President Obama Pressed to Raise Human Rights Concerns During Saudi King’s Visit
September 2, 2015
Washington, DC – As President Obama prepares to host King Salman of Saudi Arabia this Friday, Human Rights First is calling on the president to raise…
Blog
As Political Battle Starts, Guantanamo Detainees Wait
August 26, 2015
The Obama Administration is gearing up to release its long-awaited plan for closing Guantanamo—a plan that likely involves moving some detainees to a federal or…
Blog
Secretary of Defense Blocking Transfers of Cleared Guantanamo Detainees
August 10, 2015
Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter has been preventing the transfer of any Guantanamo detainee, even those cleared in a rigorous interagency review process by his…
Blog
Kerry Ducks the Issue of Human Rights in Egypt Strategic Dialogue
August 6, 2015
This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post: Looking back on the exchanges that took place around the U.S.-Egypt Strategic Dialogue on August 2,…
Blog
Former CIA Executive Director Agrees Enhanced Interrogation Was Torture
August 5, 2015
By Carolyn Tackett In a recent interview with BBC’s Hilary Andersson, Buzzy Krongard, CIA executive director from 2001 to 2004, acknowledged that detainees in Guantanamo…
Blog
Ahead of Strategic Dialogue, Egyptian Authorities Take Further Steps to Restrict Independent Human Rights Organizations
July 31, 2015
This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post: On the eve of the U.S.-Egypt Strategic Dialogue, scheduled to take place in Cairo on August 2,…
Blog
In Cairo, Kerry Should Reinforce Obama’s Remarks in Kenya
July 30, 2015
By Brian Dooley This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post: President Obama hit many right notes during his trip to Kenya last week – he…
Blog
Finally, Good News About Guantanamo
July 30, 2015
Yesterday a HuffPost/YouGov poll indicated that a majority of Americans do not believe the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay will be shut down by the end of…
Press
Human Rights First Praises Senators’ Letter Calling for Human Rights to be a Central Part of the U.S – Egypt Strategic Dialogue
July 29, 2015
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today applauds a prominent bipartisan group of U.S. Senators for pressing Secretary of State John Kerry to promote political reform, human rights,…
Press
President Obama Raises Human Rights Concerns In Kenya
July 25, 2015
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today welcomed public comments made by President Obama that support the protection of civil society, human rights, and equality in…
Blog
Defense Department Delaying Guantanamo Transfers
July 22, 2015
It was revealed yesterday in The New York Times that since taking office in February, Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter has not approved the transfer of any…
Press
Kenya Blueprint Recommends President, U.S. Government Act to Promote Human Rights
July 21, 2015
Washington, D.C. – In advance of President Obama’s trip to Kenya this week, Human Rights First today released a new blueprint outlining steps the Obama Administration…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: July 20, 2015
July 20, 2015
Top News KENYA President Obama will travel to Kenya this week to discuss economic development and entrepreneurism. Human Rights First urges President Obama to also use…
Press
President Obama Urged to Raise Human Rights Concerns in Kenya
July 20, 2015
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged President Obama to press the Kenyan government to address human rights challenges during his visit to Kenya on July…
Blueprint
How the United States Can Help Counter Violent Extremism and Support Civil Society in Kenya
July 20, 2015
“Countries that respect human rights—including freedom of association—happen to be our closest partners….When these rights are suppressed, it fuels grievances and a sense of injustice…
Opinion
Defense One: You Can’t Fight Terrorists By Partnering With Guys Like Maliki
July 17, 2015
An opinion piece by Human Rights First’s Michael J. Quigley. Why do we give credence to those who say, “The war against terrorism is failing—so…
Blog
Kenyan Corruption Undermines Fight Against Extremism
July 6, 2015
By Brian Dooley This blog was cross posted from The Huffington Post: Nairobi–Parts of Kenya’s capital are having a dramatic makeover in the weeks before President Obama’s…
Press
National Military Strategy Should Include Greater Protection for Human Rights
July 1, 2015
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First said that the 2015 National Military Strategy, released today, should place a greater emphasis on ensuring that U.S. partners in counterterrorism…
Blog
Allies’ Human Rights Practices Harm Anti-ISIL Effort
July 1, 2015
By Jordan Dannenberg Human rights abuses are fueling the Islamic State of Iraq in the Levant (ISIL). Testifying before the House Armed Services Subcommittee on…
Press
U.S. Government Should Promote Global Counterterrorism Strategy Rooted in Human Rights
June 26, 2015
New York City—Today, in response to terrorist attacks in Kuwait and Tunisia, Human Rights First urged the U.S. government to redouble its efforts to combat…
Press
State Department Country Reports Highlight Need for U.S. Leadership on Human Rights
June 25, 2015
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today welcomed the release of the State Department’s 2015 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, noting that the widespread…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: June 22, 2015
June 23, 2015
Top News Combatting Violent Extremism This week, from June 24-28, Kenya will host a regional conference on countering violent extremism. The gathering will bring together more…
Letter
Letter on Kenya CVE Summit
June 23, 2015
June 23, 2015 The Honorable Sarah Sewall Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights United States Department of State 2201 C…
Blog
Congress, Obama Must Do More to Close Guantanamo
June 19, 2015
By Carolyn Tackett This year, like others, Congress is attaching burdensome Gitmo-related provisions to the fiscal year 2016 Department of Defense spending and authorization bills. President Obama…
Blog
The McCain-Feinstein Amendment: Rebuilding the Bipartisan Consensus against Torture
June 17, 2015
Yesterday, the Senate approved Senators John McCain and Dianne Feinstein’s anti-torture amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016. With a 78-21 vote, the…
Press
Amendment Would Bar Guantanamo Detainees from Legal Counsel
June 11, 2015
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged representatives to vote against an amendment to the 2016 Department of Defense Appropriations Act by Representative Jason Smith (R-MO)…
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…
Blog
Two Meetings, Two Policies?
May 21, 2015
This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post: Today President Obama will meet with Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi at the White House. The…
Blog
Secrets, Politics and Torture: Frontline’s Look into CIA Interrogation
May 20, 2015
Last night, Frontline aired the documentary “Secrets, Politics and Torture,” which takes a chilling look at the creation and implementation of the CIA’s torture program. The documentary…
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,…
Blog
Congress Prepared to Block Gitmo Closure as Terrorists Use It for Propaganda
May 14, 2015
As the U.S.’s annual defense funding bill, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) looms in Congress, it is essential to consider the harm that the…
Letter
Letter to President Obama on U.S. Drone Strikes
May 14, 2015
May 13, 2015 The Honorable Barack Obama President of the United States of America White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20500 Re: Public…
Press
Blueprint Outlines Recommendations to Support Civil Society in the United Arab Emirates
May 12, 2015
Washington, D.C. – In advance of President Obama’s meetings this week with leaders from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, Human Rights First today said that…
Blueprint
How to Counter Terrorism by Supporting Civil Society in the United Arab Emirates
May 11, 2015
INTRODUCTION President Obama recently made a series of commendable declarations supporting civil society and affirming its importance to securing stability and fighting extremism. At the…
Fact Sheet
How to Build a More Sustainable and Mutually Beneficial Relationship with Saudi Arabia
May 10, 2015
“Too often, we have failed to enforce international norms when it’s inconvenient to do so. And we have not confronted forcefully enough the intolerance, sectarianism,…
Blog
Saudi Leadership Changes Highlight Contradictions in U.S. Middle East Policy
April 30, 2015
This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post: Yesterday King Salman of Saudi Arabia issued a series of royal decrees removing his half-brother Prince…
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.…
Blog
CIA Director Brennan Misses Opportunity to Publicly Raise Human Rights Concerns in Cairo
April 21, 2015
Since lifting the hold on military assistance to Egypt at the end of last month, high level contacts between the United States and the government…
Blog
Guantanamo is Not an Intelligence Asset
April 15, 2015
When Senator Marco Rubio told George Stephanopoulos on ABC News that he would keep the Guantanamo Bay detention center in Cuba open to accept new…
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)…
Press
In Wake of Museum Attack, United States Should Increase Support for Tunisia’s Transition to Democracy
March 19, 2015
New York City – Human Rights First today urged the U.S. government to take action to ensure that terrorism does not undermine Tunisia’s progress toward…
Press
In Wake of Museum Attack, United States Should Increase Support for Tunisia’s Transition to Democracy
March 19, 2015
New York City – Human Rights First today urged the U.S. government to take action to ensure that terrorism does not undermine Tunisia’s progress toward democracy.…
Fact Sheet
Myth v. Fact: Sunsets in AUMFs
March 13, 2015
MYTH: AUMFs never have sunsets. FACT: Ten prior AUMFs (almost a third to the total number of AUMFs) have included sunsets. Recent examples include the…
Fact Sheet
How to Build a More Sustainable and Mutually Beneficial Relationship with Saudi Arabia
March 10, 2015
“Too often, we have failed to enforce international norms when it’s inconvenient to do so. And we have not confronted forcefully enough the intolerance, sectarianism,…
Press
United States Should Overhaul Relationship With Saudi Arabia to Support Human Rights
March 10, 2015
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today urged the Obama Administration to press the Saudi government to ease its crackdown on civil society, speak out…
Blueprint
How to Build a More Sustainable and Mutually Beneficial Relationship with Saudi Arabia
March 9, 2015
The United States is not taking Saudi Arabia’s outsized responsibility for human rights abuses within or beyond the kingdom’s borders seriously enough. President Barack Obama…
Blueprint
How to Build a More Sustainable and Mutually Beneficial Relationship with Saudi Arabia
March 9, 2015
The United States is not taking Saudi Arabia’s outsized responsibility for human rights abuses within or beyond the kingdom’s borders seriously enough. President Barack Obama…
Press
Fawwaz Convicted of Terrorism in U.S. Federal Courts
February 26, 2015
New York City—Human Rights First said that today’s conviction of al Qaeda member Khaled al-Fawwaz once again demonstrates that justice in terrorism cases is best served…
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…
Press
Hicks’s Military Commission Terrorism Conviction Overturned on Appeal
February 18, 2015
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First said that today’s ruling striking down the conviction of former Guantanamo Bay detainee David Hicks demonstrates that military commissions are an…
Press
International Military and Law Enforcement Leaders Urge Obama to Support Global Counterterrorism Strategies that Prioritize Human Rights
February 18, 2015
Washington, D.C.— Six international retired military and law enforcement leaders today urged President Obama to make clear during this week’s White House Summit on Countering…
Letter
Letter to President Obama Regarding the CVE Summit from Former Military and Law Enforcement Leaders
February 18, 2015
February 18, 2015 President Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, NW Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. President: We, the undersigned, are members of…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: February 9, 2015
February 9, 2015
Top News GUANTANAMO This week, the House and Senate Armed Services Committees will both take up the issue of closing the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay…
Fact Sheet
Quote Sheet: National Security Leaders Support Closing Guantanamo
January 29, 2015
John Brennan, CIA Director. “The prison at Guantánamo Bay undermines our national security, and our nation will be more secure the day when that prison is…
Blog
Loretta Lynch Senate Confirmation Hearing: Strong on Federal Courts for Terrorism Suspects and Trafficking
January 29, 2015
Yesterday the Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on the nomination of Loretta Lynch for the office of U.S. Attorney General. If confirmed by the…
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…
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.…
Blog
Crushing Activists With Harsh Punishments in Saudi Arabia
January 15, 2015
By Carolyn Greco Earlier this week, a Saudi judge increased the sentence of prominent human rights lawyer Waleed Abu Al-Khair. Abu Al-Khair was initially sentenced…
Press
Abu Hamza Sentenced to Life in Prison in Federal Court
January 9, 2015
New York City – On Friday, a U.S. federal judge in New York City sentenced Sheikh Abu Hamza al Masri to life in prison following his conviction on…
Blog
New Year, New Congress: What to Watch on National Security
January 8, 2015
As Congress enters its 114th session, this blog series addresses what we believe should take top priority. While 2014 brought progress on national security issues,…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: January 5, 2015
January 5, 2015
Top News TRAFFICKING As 2015 kicked off, Pope Francis issued a call for an end to modern day slavery and urged the international community to double down on…
Blog
CIA Torture’s Immeasurable Damage to U.S. Global Leadership
January 1, 2015
By Brian Dooley This blog is a cross-post from Huffington Post. Last month’s revelations about CIA torture have hurt U.S. credibility worldwide. The Senate Intelligence Committee’s report…
Blueprint
How to Rebuild a Durable Consensus against Torture in the United States
December 18, 2014
The United States’ use of torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment in the so-called ‘enhanced interrogation program’ after the 9/11 terrorist attacks was misguided…
Opinion
Why CIA interrogations report matters: Torture doesn’t work and Americans need to know
December 18, 2014
As a former professional interviewer with the FBI, I know what works and doesn’t. Torture is not an effective way to get information, and the…
Opinion
Torture a frontal assault on our values
December 18, 2014
Shortly after 9/11, the U.S. government made the fateful choice to use torture, which officials called “enhanced interrogation.” As retired four-star Marine generals, we’ve long…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: December 15, 2014
December 15, 2014
Top News CIA TORTURE REPORT Last week, the Senate intelligence committee released the executive summary executive summary of its landmark report on the CIA’s post-9/11 detention and interrogation…
Press
Renewed Waiver Weakens Human Rights Conditions Attached to Egypt Foreign Aid Bill
December 15, 2014
New York City – Human Rights First today said that the national security waiver attached to Egyptian aid provisions for FY 2015 in the new omnibus spending…
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…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: December 8, 2014
December 8, 2014
Top News CIA Torture Report This week, the Senate intelligence committee is expected to release key sections of its report documenting the CIA’s post-9/11 torture…
Blog
Bahrain Jails Al Khawaja Sisters: What’s Next for Civil Society?
December 8, 2014
Last week, sisters Maryam and Zainab Al Khawaja were issued prison sentences in separate hearings in Bahraini courts. The judgments against these leading human rights…
Blueprint
How to Conduct Effective Counterterrorism that Reinforces Human Rights
December 8, 2014
The current national security environment prioritizes military responses to terrorist threats, through a legal and policy framework that puts the United States on a perpetual…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: December 1, 2014
December 3, 2014
Top News ISIS Overnight, the United States and members of its coalition to defeat ISIS led an air assault that included as many as 30 airstrikes…
Press
New Defense Secretary Should Prioritize Human Rights Issues Key to National Security
November 25, 2014
Washington, D.C.– As President Obama chooses a nominee to replace outgoing Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, Human Rights First urges him to select a candidate…
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…
Press
Federal Court Is the Appropriate Venue for Hamidullan Trial
November 4, 2014
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today praised the Obama Administration’s decision to transfer a military detainee from the Parwan Detention Facility in Afghanistan to the…
Blog
To Stop Boko Haram, Start Promoting Human Rights
October 28, 2014
It has been more than half a year since the radical Islamic insurgency group Boko Haram abducted 276 schoolgirls in Chibok, Nigeria. Since then, they…
Blog
Elisa Massimino on Conversations in the Digital Age
October 21, 2014
This month, Elisa Massimno appeared on the talk show Conversations in the Digital Age with Jim Zirin to discuss the state of human rights in the world…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: October 14, 2014
October 14, 2014
Top News KERRY TO CAIRO Secretary of State John Kerry is in Cairo today to participate in an international conference of 50 nations pledging $5…
Statements, Testimony
Statement of National Security, Intelligence, and Interrogation Professionals
October 1, 2014
The Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI) released the executive summary of its study on the Central Intelligence Agency’s (CIA) rendition, detention, and interrogation program,…
National Security, Intelligence, and Interrogation Professionals Biographies
October 1, 2014
Some defenders of torture claim that it was necessary and legal and effective. The real-world experiences of professionals in the area of counterterrorism, interrogation, human…
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…
Press
Al Qaeda Propagandist Sentenced to Life in Prison in Civilian Court
September 23, 2014
New York City – Human Rights First today said that the trial of Osama bin Laden’s son-in-law, Sulaiman Abu Ghaith, underscores that justice in terrorism cases is best…
Press
Obama Should Call for Global Response to Extremism Founded in Human Rights at U.N.
September 23, 2014
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today urged President Obama to use his appearances at the United Nations to call for a global response to extremism and…
Letter
Letter to President Obama on Visit to U.N.
September 23, 2014
Dear Mr. President, As you prepare to make your annual address to the General Assembly of the United Nations, we write to urge you to…
Press
Massimino Delivers Keynote Address to OSCE
September 22, 2014
Warsaw, Poland – Human Rights First’s Elisa Massimino today delivered remarks before the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) during the Human Dimension Implementation meeting. In…
Testimony
Back to Basics: Advancing Human Rights in a Time of Crisis
September 22, 2014
Keynote Address to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Warsaw, Poland Elisa Massimino, President and CEO, Human Rights First September 22, 2014…
Press
Human Rights First’s Tad Stahnke Testifies on Religious Freedom and National Security
September 18, 2014
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First’s Tad Stahnke will testify before Congress today and detail recommendations for the U.S. government to advance U.S. policy on international…
Testimony
Testimony of Tad Stahnke on Meeting Current International Religious Freedom and National Security Challenges
September 18, 2014
Testimony of Tad Stahnke before the house committee on oversight and government reform subcommittee on national security: “Meeting Current International Religious Freedom and National Security…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: September 15, 2014
September 15, 2014
Top News Congressional ISIS Hearings Members of the House and Senate will hold a series of hearings this week on the administration’s plan to address the…
Press
President Obama and Congress Should Create Narrow Authorization in Fight Against ISIS
September 10, 2014
Washington, D.C. – In response to President Obama’s speech regarding U.S. action against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), Human Rights First urges the president to…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: September 8, 2014
September 8, 2014
Top News ISIS President Obama will deliver an address on Wednesday to detail the administration’s plan for responding to the violence committed by the Islamic State…
Blog
ISIS, Shabaab, and Al Qaeda in India: Who Is the U.S. at War With?
September 4, 2014
This week, the U.S. launched air strikes against al Qaeda’s Somali affiliate, al Shabaab, apparently aiming to kill the group’s leader, Ahmed Abdi Godane. For the second…
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…
Blog
Washington’s Wishful Thinking Policy on Egypt
August 21, 2014
Wishful thinking does not make for sound public policy. But the U.S. government so desperately wants to believe that new Egyptian President Sisi is on…
Blog
Nigerian Government Needs to Address Root Problems Helping Boko Haram
August 6, 2014
By Maddy Tennis Boko Haram, a jihadist insurgency group based in Nigeria, attacked the home of Ali Amadou, Cameroon’s Vice Prime Minister, in the northern…
Opinion
You Can’t Fight Terrorists By Partnering With Guys Like Maliki
August 5, 2014
An opinion piece by Human Rights First’s Michael J. Quigley. Why do we give credence to those who say, “The war against terrorism is failing—so keep…
Blog
The Fight against ISIS Shows Why Human Rights and the Leahy Laws Matter
July 26, 2014
By John Rodriguez As the crisis in Iraq continues, Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has shown a disregard for human rights when dealing with the…
Press
Periodic Review Board Clears Another Guantanamo Detainee for Transfer
July 25, 2014
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First is calling today’s decision by the Periodic Review Board to clear for transfer Guantanamo detainee Fawzi al-Odah a step…
Blog
9/11 Commission Report Authors Outline an Approach to Counterterrorism without War
July 24, 2014
Earlier this week, former members of the 2004 9/11 Commission issued a follow up report, reflecting on their original recommendations and analyzing the current terrorist…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: July 21, 2014
July 21, 2014
Top News CHILDREN AT THE BORDER On Friday, President Obama will meet with the presidents of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras to discuss the surge…
Press
Malala Day Marks Need for Protection of the Rights of Girls Worldwide
July 14, 2014
Washington, D.C. – In honor of Malala Day, Human Rights First today celebrates Malala Yousafzai and other bold human rights defenders around the world for…
Blog
Getting Involved in Local Conflicts Risks Making the United States a Real Target for Extremists
July 14, 2014
Following the recent advance of the insurgent group Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), some commentators have been critical of the Obama administration’s expressed…
Press
Massimino Testimony Outlines Strategic Importance of Leahy Law Vetting
July 10, 2014
Washington, D.C. – As Congress debates how the United States will conduct foreign counterterrorism operations, Human Rights First’s President and CEO Elisa Massimino will testify…
Testimony
Testimony of Elisa Massimino on “Human Rights Vetting: Nigeria and Beyond” Congressional Hearing
July 10, 2014
Testimony of Elisa Massimino for the hearing on “Human Rights Vetting: Nigeria and Beyond” before the the United States House of Representatives Subcommittee on Africa,…
Blog
Endless War is the Wrong Response to ISIS
July 10, 2014
This is a cross post from Just Security. “Obama’s Blueprint for Fighting Terrorism Collides with Reality in Iraq,” blared the New York Times headline late…
Blog
No, The United States is Not at War with Radical Islam
July 8, 2014
Yesterday, in a Daily Beast article about how little attention legislators are paying to NSA-related breaking news, Senator Lindsey Graham was quoted as saying, “I don’t really…
Blog
Yes, we can both end the war and fight terrorism.
June 18, 2014
By John Rodriguez In yesterday’s Washington Post, columnist Jennifer Rubin criticized those who believe we should not be on a perpetual war footing against terrorism (“Did…