Skip to content
Human Rights First Human Rights First
About Us Join the Work
Donate
Donate
Human Rights First Human Rights First
About Us Join the Work

Work With Asylum Seekers

Learn More

If you are seeking asylum, we can help

Seek Asylum

Areas of Focus

  • Authoritarianism
  • Extremism
  • Systemic Injustice
  • The Use and Abuse of Technology

Current Initiatives

  • Extremism and Human Rights
  • Innovation Lab
  • Our Work in Ukraine
  • Project: Afghan Legal Assistance
  • Targeted Sanctions Project
  • Veterans for American Ideals
  • Financials
  • About Us
  • Careers
  • Join the Work
  • Media Library
  • Events
  • Contact
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • Facebook

We found 757 results for "Extremism and Human Rights"

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…

Learn More

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 —…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Statement for the Record of Human Rights First On House Judiciary Committee “Biden’s Border Crisis – Part One”

February 1, 2023

OVERVIEW 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.…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

HUMAN RIGHTS FIRST WELCOMES ITS EMERGING LEADERS ADVISORY BOARD

November 23, 2022

The Next Generation of World Shapers is Already Here By Jayshawn Lee and Isaac Todd Importance & Promise  Young people have always been vanguards in…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Press

Shora Speaks at DHS Conference on Extremist Violence

November 4, 2022

WASHINGTON – Human Rights First’s Executive Vice President for Programs and Policy Kareem Shora spoke today at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Center…

Learn More

Blog

Reflections on OSCE Chairmanship Conference in Berlin: Celebrating Diversity as an Opportunity

October 26, 2022

The task is simple, yet daunting: to create a more equitable world, we have to work together across faiths, ethnicities, and borders to strengthen our…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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,…

Learn More

Press

Human Rights First Welcomes Krishna Omkar to its Board

September 19, 2022

NEW YORK – At its recent board meeting, Human Rights First elected Krishna Omkar to its board of directors. “Krishna is recognized around the world as…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Topics

MIDDLE EAST

September 19, 2022

The U.S. Government’s Middle East Policies Should Prioritize Human Rights For decades the United States has backed Middle Eastern dictatorships in the name of “stability.”…

Learn More

Topics

EXTREMISM

September 19, 2022

We help lead a holistic, rights-respecting response to violent domestic extremism. Spurred by drivers such as technology, climate, demographic change, economic inequality, and opportunistic leadership,…

Learn More

Press

IFA’s Amy Spitalnick to Advise Human Rights First on Extremism

September 7, 2022

Spitalnick and IFA Spearheaded Lawsuit Against Charlottesville White Supremacists NEW YORK — Human Rights First is pleased to announce that Amy Spitalnick is joining the organization…

Learn More

Press

IFA’s Amy Spitalnick to Advise Human Rights First on Extremism

August 9, 2022

Spitalnick and IFA Spearheaded Lawsuit Against Charlottesville White Supremacists NEW YORK — Human Rights First is pleased to announce that Amy Spitalnick is joining the…

Learn More

Press

U.S. Must Push for End to Torture in Egyptian Prisons

August 2, 2022

WASHINGTON, DC — Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri was reportedly killed yesterday in a U.S. drone strike almost 21 years after the 9/11 attacks.  Zawahiri is believed…

Learn More

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,…

Learn More

Action

Use Your Voice for Human Rights

July 7, 2022

Human Rights are under threat in the United States and across the globe in the undue burdens put on asylum seekers exercising their right to…

Learn More

Testimony

Ensuring Safety and Support for Human Rights Defenders of Asylum Seekers, Refugees, and Other Migrants Targeted by Illegal Pushback Policies, Extremist Attacks, and Harassment by Government Officials

June 27, 2022

Submission to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights Defenders…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn 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.…

Learn More

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,…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Testimony

Helping Veterans Thrive: The Importance of Peer Support in Preventing Domestic Violent Extremism

March 31, 2022

Chairman Takano, Ranking Member Bost, and members of the committee: thank you for the opportunity to appear here today to discuss an urgent threat facing…

Learn More

Press

Human Rights First Calls for Nominations for 2022 Roger N. Baldwin Medal of Liberty Award

March 10, 2022

WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, Human Rights First announced a call for nominations for the 2022 Roger N. Baldwin Medal of Liberty Award. Nominations are due…

Learn More

Press

Human Rights First Announces Addition of Inaugural Chief Legal Officer

March 8, 2022

WASHINGTON D.C. Human Rights First is pleased to announce that Licha M. Nyiendo today joins the organization as its inaugural Chief Legal Officer. Her hiring is…

Learn More

Press

HUMAN RIGHTS FIRST WELCOMES ALENCIA JOHNSON TO BOARD OF DIRECTORS

January 25, 2022

WASHINGTON – At its quarterly board meeting last week, Human Rights First elected Alencia Johnson to its board of directors. “Alencia brings to our board of…

Learn More

Press

Defending Democracy on the Anniversary of January 6

January 6, 2022

WASHINGTON -- Human Rights First acknowledged the one-year anniversary of the insurrection at the United States Capitol by reprising our call to bring those responsible…

Learn More

Press

Human Rights First Commends D.C. Attorney General for Suing Those Responsible for Jan. 6 Insurrection

December 15, 2021

WASHINGTON – Using a law originally written to cripple the KKK, District of Columbia Attorney General Karl A. Racine set a historic precedent yesterday, suing…

Learn More

Press

To Counter Domestic Extremism, Human Rights First Launches Pyrra

December 7, 2021

Learn More

Press

Human Rights First Calls on Twitter to End Policy Weaponized by Extremists

December 2, 2021

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Press

Testimony: A Rights-Centered Approach To Violent Extremism

October 27, 2021

WASHINGTON –– Countering far-right violent extremism has become a priority for those working to prevent and counter domestic terrorism, especially after the events of January…

Learn More

Press

Human Rights First announces new Executive Vice President for Programs and Policy

September 10, 2021

WASHINGTON — Human Rights First is pleased to announce the hiring of Kareem W. Shora, J.D., LL.M. as Executive Vice President for Programs and Policy,…

Learn More

Testimony

Creating Time Bombs: How Abuse in Egypt’s Prison System Fuels ISIS Recruitment

July 15, 2021

Early hopes that the Biden administration would break from a decades-long U.S. practice of enabling Egyptian dictatorships are fading, with potentially catastrophic consequences for human…

Learn More

Blog

Cairo Family Targeted as US Embassy Tweets Support for Egypt’s Security Forces

April 28, 2021

When Hoda Ahmed heard her son Abdelrahman Elshwekh had been severely tortured in Egypt’s Minya prison she went on social media and asked for help.…

Learn More

Testimony

Counter Human Rights Disinformation

March 8, 2021

Extremist Explorer This tool provides researchers into extremist groups, individuals, and actions with a system that makes their work more efficient and collaborative. Extremist Explorer…

Learn More

Testimony

Hold Human Rights Abusers Accountable

March 8, 2021

Extremist Explorer This tool provides researchers into extremist groups, individuals, and actions with a system that makes their work more efficient and collaborative. Extremist Explorer…

Learn More

Press

Human Rights First Applauds Biden Administration’s Commitment to Ending Forever Wars, But Calls for Concrete Steps

March 4, 2021

NEW YORK — Human Rights First welcomed interim national security strategic guidance released today by the Biden administration signaling its commitment to end America’s “forever wars” that…

Learn More

Press

Human Rights First Calls on Social Media Companies to Invest in Anti-Extremism After Wray Testimony in Senate

March 2, 2021

WASHINGTON – Human Rights First President and CEO Michael Breen gave the following statement on the testimony given by FBI Director Christopher Wray today before…

Learn More

Press

Congress Must Hold Members Accountable for Instigating the Attack on Our Election and Capitol

January 31, 2021

WASHINGTON – As Congress moves to impeach President Trump, it must also look at the actions of its own members who violated their oaths of…

Learn More

Press

Biden Nominees Signal Turn to Human Rights-Centered Leadership in Security and Foreign Policy

January 21, 2021

WASHINGTON – Tuesday’s Senate confirmation hearings strongly suggest that the Biden-Harris administration intends to move the United States government in positive new directions in terms…

Learn More

Letter

For the Biden Administration, 10 Lessons from 10 Years of U.S. Mideast Policy

January 12, 2021

The Arab Spring uprisings began ten years ago, taking the U.S. government and most of the rest of the world by surprise. The Obama administration’s…

Learn More

Press

Human Rights Advocates Welcome Provisions in Defense Bill

December 11, 2020

WASHINGTON – Human Rights First applauds the passage of several important provisions related to human rights in the final FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA),…

Learn More

Blog

Push the Fringe to the Fringe

November 23, 2020

Learn More

Press

Human Rights First Congratulates Board Member Tony Blinken on Nomination to Serve as Secretary of State

November 23, 2020

Blinken, a long-time board member, has stood with Human Rights First in defending human rights and democratic movements around the world WASHINGTON — Human Rights First congratulates…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Letter

New Report Details Abuse and Radicalization of Children in Egyptian Jails

February 3, 2020

New Report Details Abuse and Radicalization of Children in Egyptian Jails Brian Dooley Senior Advisor   A shocking new report on the radicalization of child…

Learn More

Press

Misuse of Military Funding for Border Wall Impacts Readiness, Undermines Congress, Solves Nothing

September 4, 2019

Washington, D.C.—In response to the diversion of $3.6 billion in funds from 127 military projects for construction of a wall on the U.S. southern border,…

Learn More

Blog

50th Detainee to Receive Periodic Review Board Hearing

June 29, 2019

By Molly Wooldridge Yesterday the Guantanamo Periodic Review Board convened to hear the case of Musab Umar Ali Al-Mudwani, a thirty-six year-old Yemeni national who has been detained…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Press

Designating Muslim Brotherhood a Foreign Terrorist Organization Would be Counterproductive for United States

April 30, 2019

Washington, D.C.—In response to reports that the Trump Administration could imminently designate the Muslim Brotherhood as a foreign terrorist organization, Human Rights First’s Brian Dooley…

Learn More

Blog

Response to Egypt’s Referendum on Constitutional Changes

April 19, 2019

By Brian Dooley This weekend, Egyptians will vote on a controversial referendum to amend the country’s constitution to prolong President Abdel Al Fattah Sisi’s tenure in office.…

Learn More

Press

Administration Urged to Demand Human Rights Improvements During Sisi Visit

April 5, 2019

Washington, D.C.—Ahead of next week’s White House visit by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, Human Rights First today called on the Trump Administration to raise…

Learn More

Blog

How ISIS Recruits in Egyptian Prisons

February 26, 2019

The 18-year-old Egyptian was arrested for excessive partying, imprisoned, and tortured. Guards suspended him from the ceiling, flogged, and electrocuted him. Shortly after, a recently…

Learn More

Report

Like a Fire in a Forest: ISIS Recruitment in Egypt’s Prisons

February 25, 2019

Speaking in Cairo on January 10, 2019, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo praised Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi for “his vigorous efforts to combat…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Press

New Report Details Deteriorating Human Rights Conditions in Egypt

September 20, 2018

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First and the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies (CIHRS) today released a new report detailing the severe crackdown on peaceful dissent and nongovernmental organizations…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Administration’s policies of Fear and Division Challenged in The Netherlands.

January 18, 2018

Peter Hoekstra, a former Republican member of Congress from Michigan, was a leading supporter of Donald Trump’s presidential campaign. He was rewarded by being appointed…

Learn More

Press

Massimino Statement on Human Rights Day

December 10, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Today as the world commemorates Human Rights Day, President and CEO Elisa Massimino released the following statement: “Respect for human dignity and individual rights…

Learn More

Issue Brief

Preventing Security Measures from Eclipsing Human Rights

December 6, 2017

Human Rights Are the Core of the Answer rather than an Obstacle to Addressing Terrorism Adopted by the participants of the OSCE Parallel Civil Society…

Learn More

Press

Migrant Shelter, The Handmaid’s Tale to Receive Awards During Human Rights First Dinner Tonight

October 18, 2017

New York City – Tonight at the Human Rights First Award Dinner at Chelsea Piers in New York City, the organization will honor Friar Tomás…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Press

The Handmaid’s Tale to Receive Lumet Award for Integrity in Entertainment

September 15, 2017

New York City—Human Rights First today announced that its 2017 Sidney Lumet Award for Integrity in Entertainment will go to the Emmy award-winning Hulu series The Handmaid’s…

Learn More

Press

Human Rights First Marks 16th Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks

September 11, 2017

Washington, D.C. – Today Human Rights First issued the following statement marking the 16th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, that resulted in the deaths…

Learn More

Press

Sebastian Gorka Departs White House

August 25, 2017

Washington, D.C.—In response to today’s announcement that Sebastian Gorka has left his position as White House deputy assistant, Human Rights First’s Rob Berschinski released the…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Press

Sebastian Gorka Departs White House

August 20, 2017

Washington, D.C.—In response to today’s announcement that Sebastian Gorka has left his position as White House deputy assistant, Human Rights First’s Rob Berschinski released the…

Learn More

Blog

The German Neo-Nazi Case Concludes: Four Years Later and Still No Justice for Victims

August 8, 2017

By Chelsea Wilson Miller After more than four years, the case against the Nationalist Socialist Underground—a German neo-Nazi group—will finally come to an end this year. Closing arguments began…

Learn More

Blog

German Social Media Regulation Inspires Repressive Regimes

August 3, 2017

By Adam Nagy Passed on June 30, a new German hate speech law imposes heavy fines on social media companies that fail to swiftly remove…

Learn More

Press

New Report Calls on U.S. to Suspend Military Aid to Egypt over Abuses

August 2, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today released a new report detailing the severe crackdown on peaceful dissent and nongovernmental organizations in Egypt under the Sisi government. In the report the…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Canada Avoids Ethno-Populism, but not the Surge in Hate Crimes

July 19, 2017

By Chelsea Wilson Miller First, the good news: Canada has largely resisted the ethno-populism that’s swept through other Western democracies in recent years. The ethno-populists who’ve risen…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

German Lawmakers Pass Restriction on Free Speech

June 30, 2017

By Susan Corke and Emma Bernstein In a blow to free speech, German lawmakers today passed a bill requiring social media companies to remove illegal content, including…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Masking Anti-Muslim Hatred: U.S. Hate Groups & their False Fight for Human Rights

June 21, 2017

By Emma Bernstein and Chelsea Wilson Miller On June 10, ACT for America organized marches “against Sharia law and for human rights” in 28 cities across the…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: June 5, 2017

June 5, 2017

By Mary Elizabeth Margolis Top Items Trump Administration Asks the Supreme Court to Reinstate Refugee Ban On Thursday the Department of Justice asked the Supreme Court…

Learn More

Blog

Three Fallacies in Trump’s Riyadh Speech

May 24, 2017

President Trump’s speech at the Arab Islamic American Summit in Riyadh on May 21 was rich in generalities and open to broad interpretation. For example, the president promised…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: May 22, 2017

May 22, 2017

By Mary Elizabeth Margolis Top Items Ambassador Haley Travels to Jordan and Turkey U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley is currently on a…

Learn More

Blog

Trump’s Vainglorious and Counterproductive Summit in Saudi Arabia

May 19, 2017

Donald Trump’s first foreign trip as President of the United States will not take him to the capital cities of Mexico or Canada, the two…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Coptic Church Bombings Show Sisi Isn’t Doing a “Fantastic Job”

April 13, 2017

The suicide bombings of Palm Sunday services in two Coptic churches in Egypt, which killed at least 45 people and wounded scores more, are another…

Learn More

Blog

German Social Media Law Threatens Free Speech

April 10, 2017

By Erika Asgeirsson On Wednesday, the German cabinet approved a draft law that would fine social media companies for failing to remove hate speech and other content…

Learn More

Press

Sisi’s Egypt is a Poor Partner for the United States in the Fight Against Terrorism

March 31, 2017

Egyptian President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi will visit President Trump at the White House next week. The visit comes at a time when governments around the…

Learn More

Press

Trump’s Failure to Raise Human Rights Concerns Publicly with Egyptian President Will Undermine U.S. Interests

March 31, 2017

New York City—Following statements made today that President Trump will not publicly raise human rights concerns with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi during their meeting…

Learn More

Press

New Report Examines Crackdown on Hungarian NGOs, Ties to Russia

March 30, 2017

Washington, D.C.— Human Rights First today released a new report analyzing Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban’s close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin and his…

Learn More

Press

Global Coalition to Counter ISIS Needs to Think Beyond the Battlefield

March 21, 2017

Washington, D.C.—In advance of tomorrow’s meeting between Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and senior officials from the Global Coalition to Counter ISIS, Human Rights First…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

On Maidan Anniversary, United States Must Offer Clarity

February 23, 2017

Co-authored by Alexandra Funk This blog is cross posted with The Huffington Post This week marks the three-year anniversary of Ukraine’s Maidan revolution, which erupted beginning February 19,…

Learn More

Blog

President Trump’s Telling Silences

February 17, 2017

In these first few weeks of the Trump Administration, the president’s often-harmful words have rightfully gotten a lot of attention. But his silences are no…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Proposed Designation of the Muslim Brotherhood as a Terrorist Organization Will Fuel Fear and Division and Harm the Fight Against Terrorism

February 9, 2017

This is crossposted from The Huffington Post. The Trump White House is reportedly considering designating the Muslim Brotherhood a foreign terrorist organization, or “FTO.”  The factual argument…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

The Syria “Safe Zones” Mystery

February 2, 2017

By Neil Hicks This article is a cross-post from The Huffington Post. In his telephone discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Arabian King…

Learn More

Blog

The Trump Administration Turns its Back on the World’s Refugees

February 1, 2017

This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post. President Trump and his senior advisors have sought to downplay the significance of the sweeping restrictions on refugees…

Learn More

Blog

German Constitutional Court Rejects Attempt to Ban NPD

January 18, 2017

By Erika Asgeirsson On Tuesday, the German Constitutional Court rejected an attempt to ban the far-right National Democratic Party (NPD). The NPD is a neo-Nazi political party…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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)…

Learn More

Press

Russia Vetoes U.N. Security Council Resolution for Aleppo Ceasefire

December 6, 2016

New York City—Human Rights First today expressed concern over the failure of the United Nations Security Council to pass a ceasefire resolution for Aleppo, Syria, that would…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: November 28, 2016

November 28, 2016

Top Items Veterans Storming Capitol Hill  This week members of Veterans for American Ideals will convene in Washington, D.C. to call on members of Congress to save…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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’…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: November 7, 2016

November 7, 2016

Top Items Election Day Tomorrow, Tuesday, November 8 is election day! In coming weeks, Human Rights First will offer analysis and recommendations for how the next…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Ending “Business as Usual” with Rosobronexport

November 1, 2016

By Laure Bokobza In June 2013 Human Rights First issued a blueprint calling on the United States to stop doing business with Russian state-owned arms dealer Rosoboronexport…

Learn More

Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: October 31, 2016

October 31, 2016

Top Items Immigration Detention Human Rights First and 229 partner organizations today called on Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Jeh Johnson to take immediate…

Learn More

Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: October 31, 2016

October 31, 2016

Top Items Immigration Detention Human Rights First and 229 partner organizations today called on Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Jeh Johnson to take immediate steps…

Learn More

Blog

Reflections on OSCE Chairmanship Conference in Berlin: Celebrating Diversity as an Opportunity

October 26, 2016

The task is simple, yet daunting: to create a more equitable world, we have to work together across faiths, ethnicities, and borders to strengthen our…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Letter

Letter to President Obama on Last 100 Days in Office

October 13, 2016

October 13, 2016   The Honorable Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, D.C. 20500   Dear Mr. President: Right now, in…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Press

Ilham Tohti Selected as the 2016 Laureate Martin Ennals Award for Human Rights Defenders

October 11, 2016

Geneva –– The Martin Ennals Jury today announced the selection of Ilham Tohti of China for the 2016 Martin Ennals Award for Human Rights Defenders. The award…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Press

#BetterTogether Summit Yields U.S.-France Agenda to Fight Extremism, Radicalization Online

September 14, 2016

Paris, France—Following an historic two-day summit in France that brought together civil society, the tech sector, and French and U.S. government leaders, event cohosts Human Rights…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Press

Human Rights First Marks the 15th Anniversary of the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks

September 11, 2016

Washington, D.C. – Today Human Rights First issued the following statement marking the 15th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, that resulted in the deaths…

Learn More

Blog

Moving Forward: PRB Conducts Last Initial Hearing of Gitmo Detainees

September 8, 2016

By Elizabeth Topolosky Today the Periodic Review Board (PRB) fulfilled one of the goals listed in the Plan to Close Guantanamo Bay that the Department of Defense…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Weak Human Rights Promotion Contributes to Policy Failures in the Middle East

August 31, 2016

Normally when a senior U.S. official visits a country where serious violations of human rights are taking place, that official can be expected to raise…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Vote for Human Rights First’s SXSW PanelPicker Ideas

August 16, 2016

Last March we set out for Austin, Texas to talk about using corporate data to fight modern slavery at SXSW (South by Southwest). Now we’re…

Learn More

Press

Obama Administration Transfers 15 Guantanamo Detainees

August 15, 2016

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today praised the transfer of 15 Guantanamo detainees to the United Arab Emirates, and encourages the Obama Administration to keep up…

Learn More

Blog

Bahrain Targets Clerics in New Wave of Attacks

August 12, 2016

This is a cross-post from The Huffington Post. Bahrain’s Sunni-led government continues to attack the country’s leading Shia clerics. In a new development yesterday, Sheikh Maytham Al Salman…

Learn More

Blog

Gitmo Review Board Hearing for Malaysian High-Value Detainee

August 12, 2016

By Molly Wooldridge Thursday morning, Malaysian national Mohammed Bashir Bin Lap, better known by his alias Lillie, received his initial Guantanamo Periodic Review Board (PRB) hearing. Lillie,…

Learn More

Blog

Gitmo’s “Lonely Heart” Receives Initial Review Hearing

August 5, 2016

By Molly Wooldridge Yesterday the Guantanamo Periodic Review Board held a hearing for 51-year-old Afghan citizen Muhammad Rahim. Rahim, who has been held at Guantanamo for over eight…

Learn More

Blog

High Value Gitmo Detainee Receives Parole Review

August 2, 2016

By Amy Morello This morning the Guantanamo Periodic Review Board (PRB) convened to consider the case of Guleed Hassan Ahmed, a 42-year-old Somali citizen who is one of…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

U.S. Policy in the Middle East Should Fulfill the Promise of Years of Hopeful Rhetoric

August 1, 2016

As the Obama Administration nears the end of its term, it’s time to assess its impact on human rights in a region that has long…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Human Rights Not a “Tertiary” Interest in U.S. Middle East Policy

July 26, 2016

This blog is cross posted from the Huffington Post. Steven Simon and Jonathan Stevenson’s op-ed in The New York Times, “Why the U.S. Military Can’t…

Learn More

Blog

Six Ways Human Rights are at Risk in Turkey after the Coup Attempt

July 25, 2016

This blog is cross posted from the Huffington Post On July 16, a faction of the Turkish military initiated an attempted coup. It disagreed with…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Bahrain Hits Civil Society Leaders with Travel Bans

July 18, 2016

By Brian Dooley This blog is cross posted from the Huffington Post Several leading figures in Bahrain’s civil society who have briefed the State Department…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

U.K. Chilcot Report Points to Persistent Weakness in U.S. Foreign Policy

July 13, 2016

The Chilcot Report on the U.K’s involvement in the war in Iraq, released last week in London, attributes plenty of blame to British policy makers…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

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…

Learn More

Press

First Commanding Officer of Guantanamo Detention Center Urges Congress to Close Facility

July 7, 2016

Washington, D.C.—Major General Michael R. Lehnert, USMC (Ret.) today urged members of Congress to renew their efforts to close the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay,…

Learn More

Blog

50th Detainee to Receive Periodic Review Board Hearing

June 29, 2016

By Molly Wooldridge Yesterday the Guantanamo Periodic Review Board convened to hear the case of Musab Umar Ali Al-Mudwani, a thirty-six year-old Yemeni national who has been detained…

Learn More

Blog

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…

Learn More

Blog

Tortured Saudi Gitmo Detainee Receives Review Board Hearing

June 16, 2016

This morning the Guantanamo Periodic Review Board (PRB) held a hearing for Mohammad Mani Ahmad al-Qahtani. Al-Qahtani is a 40-year-old Saudi Arabian detainee who has been imprisoned…

Learn More

Press

Bahraini Opposition Group Al Wefaq Suspended

June 14, 2016

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today said that the suspension of Bahrain’s main opposition group Al Wefaq is part of an alarming new crackdown by the…

Learn More

Press

During Meetings this Week Obama Administration Should Press Saudi Deputy Crown Prince on Human Rights

June 13, 2016

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today called on President Obama, Secretary of State John Kerry, and Secretary of Defense Ash Carter to press Saudi Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin…

Learn More

Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: June 13, 2016

June 13, 2016

Top News Ukraine Pride After the deadliest mass shooting attack in U.S. history targeted LGBT men and women at Orlando’s Pulse nightclub, claiming 50 lives and…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Press

Extension of French State of Emergency Raises Serious Human Rights Concerns

May 19, 2016

New York City—Human Rights First today urged French lawmakers to use proportionate, rights-respecting law enforcement responses to threats and acts of terrorism instead of relying…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

After Nearly 12 Years at Gitmo, Detainee Gets His Initial PRB Hearing

May 12, 2016

By Adelma Jakupovic The Guantanamo Bay Periodic Review Board (PRB) convened this morning to assess whether continued detention is necessary for Abd Al Salam Al Hilah or whether he…

Learn More

Blog

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…

Learn More

Press

Congress Urged to Reject Provisions in NDAA to Ban Transfer of Guantanamo Detainees

April 28, 2016

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged members of Congress to reject  onerous provisions in the 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would make it…

Learn More

Press

China Seeks to Chill Foreign Funding of NGOs

April 28, 2016

Washington, D.C.—Continuing a troubling global trend of authoritarian crackdowns on civil society and foreign-based nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), Chinese President Xi Jinping has led an effort…

Learn More

Blog

Former Al Qaeda Member Receives PRB Review

April 27, 2016

By Leah Schulz Yesterday, Gitmo detainee Uthman Abdul Rahim Mohammed Uthman received his Periodic Review Board hearing to determine whether he represents a “continuing threat to the…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Press

President Obama Raises Human Rights Concerns in Saudi Arabia

April 21, 2016

Washington, D.C. — Human Rights First today welcomed reports that President Obama raised human rights during meetings with Saudi government leaders yesterday, but urged him to call for the release of jailed…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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,…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: April 18, 2016

April 18, 2016

TOP NEWS Obama in Saudi Arabia This week President Obama travels to Saudi Arabia to meet with leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), including…

Learn More

Press

President Obama Urged to Meet with Civil Society Leaders, Press Saudi Government to Release Jailed Activists During Upcoming Trip

April 18, 2016

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today called on President Obama to raise human rights concerns with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) leaders during his trip to…

Learn More

Press

Nine Guantanamo Detainees Transferred to Saudi Arabia

April 16, 2016

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today praised the transfer of 9 Guantanamo Bay detainees to Saudi Arabia, but notes that the pace of the transfers must increase…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: April 11, 2016

April 11, 2016

Top News Bahrain Ahead of President Obama’s upcoming participation in the Gulf Cooperation Council summit scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia later this month, Secretary of State John Kerry travelled to Bahrain last…

Learn More

Blog

Six Things John Kerry Should Do in Bahrain

April 5, 2016

This blog is cross-posted from the Huffington Post: This week secretary of State John Kerry visits one of Washington’s repressive Gulf allies, Bahrain, three weeks before…

Learn More

Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: April 4, 2016

April 4, 2016

Top News Guantanamo Today two detainees from the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, were transferred to Senegal. The transfers come as the Pentagon continues to advocate for the administration’s plan to close…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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,…

Learn More

Blog

Egypt’s Moves to Destroy its Human Rights Movement Threaten U.S. National Interests

March 23, 2016

This blog is cross-posted from the Huffington Post: This article could not be published in Egypt. At least that’s my understanding of the gag order a judge, Hesham…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: March 21, 2016

March 21, 2016

Top News Torture Last week National Security Advisor Susan Rice announced that the president will begin the declassification of records from Argentina’s “Dirty War” as…

Learn More

Blog

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

GTMO’s Oldest Detainee Gets Review Board Hearing

March 8, 2016

This morning 68-year-old Saifullah Abdullah Paracha, the oldest remaining Guantanamo detainee, received a Periodic Review Board (PRB) hearing. The government says that Paracha worked with Khalid Sheikh Mohammed…

Learn More

Blog

While Insisting on a Need for Clarity, Perry’s AUMF is Anything but Clear

March 7, 2016

Amidst the United States’ continued efforts to fight the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS), Representative Scott Perry (R-PA) is the latest member of Congress to propose an…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Press

Bahraini Opposition Leader Sentenced to One Year in Jail

February 24, 2016

Washington, D.C. – Following news that Bahraini opposition leader Ibrahim Sharif has been sentenced to one year in jail, Human Rights First today urged the U.S. government…

Learn More

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.…

Learn More

Press

French State of Emergency Extended

February 17, 2016

New York City—Human Rights First today calls on U.S. government officials to urge their French counterparts to exercise restraint in the use of extraordinary powers…

Learn More

Press

Five Years After Failed Uprisings for Democratic Reform, New Blueprint Recommends United States Change Course in Bahrain

February 11, 2016

Washington, D.C. – To mark the fifth anniversary of the brutal government crackdown on mass protests calling for democratic reform in Bahrain on February 14, Human Rights…

Learn More

Blueprint

How to Reverse Five Years of Failure on Bahrain

February 11, 2016

On the fifth anniversary of the mass protests in Bahrain that threatened to bring down the country’s autocratic regime, Bahrainis continue to suffer severe repression…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

How the United States Undermines its Ability to Promote Human Rights in Egypt

February 11, 2016

This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post. Under Secretary of State Sarah Sewall deserves praise for her speech in Cairo on February 10, where she simply…

Learn More

Press

French National Assembly Votes in Favor of Measures Limiting Human Rights

February 10, 2016

New York City—Human Rights First today renewed calls on U.S. government officials to urge their French counterparts to reject a proposed amendment to the French constitution…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

A Perilous Path: How Exceeding Term Limits Can Foster Violent Extremism

February 3, 2016

After the deadly attacks on hotels in Mali in November and Burkina Faso in January, neighboring Senegal is justifiably worried about the threat of violent extremism spilling over into…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Press

French Parliament Should Reject Measures Limiting Human Rights

February 2, 2016

New York City—Human Rights First today calls on the U.S. government to urge its French counterparts to reject an extension of the state of emergency…

Learn More

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.…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Press

Five Years After Tahrir Square, Blueprint Outlines Recommendations to Support Stability in Egypt

January 25, 2016

Washington, D.C. – On the fifth anniversary of the mass Tahrir Square protests calling for democratic reform in Egypt, Human Rights First today released a…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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.…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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,…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Guantanamo Periodic Review Board Examines Case of Yemeni National

December 2, 2015

By Adelma Jakupovic The Guantanamo Bay Periodic Review Board(PRB) convened yesterday morning to assess whether Yemeni national Mustafa Abd al-Qawi Abd al-Aziz al-Shamiri, a Gitmo detainee…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Press

Secretary Kerry Urged to Highlight Golden Dawn Trial and Refugee Crisis during Visit to Greece

December 2, 2015

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today urged Secretary of State John Kerry to raise concerns about the rise of the far-right and the ongoing refugee…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Washington Week on Human Rights: November 23, 2015

November 24, 2015

Top News Global Refugee Crisis Last week, the House of Representatives passed the American Safe Act, legislation that would effectively shut down the resettlement of…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

U.S.-Hungary Relationship Evolving as Ambassador Critiques Corruption and Civil Society Repression

November 4, 2015

By Timothy Meyers U.S. Ambassador to Hungary Colleen Bell, speaking in Budapest last week, described the U.S.-Hungarian relationship as strong—but expressed concern that Hungary is…

Learn More

Blog

President Obama’s Record-Breaking Arms Sales Are Enabling Human Rights Abuses

October 27, 2015

During his address to Congress last month, Pope Francis took aim at the arms trade, and the “shameful and culpable silence” that surrounds it. This…

Learn More

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,…

Learn More

Blog

U.S. Government Should Address Human Rights Concerns at Manama Dialogue

October 23, 2015

Bahrain will host the Manama Dialogue, a high-profile security conference, from October 30 to November 1. A senior delegation of U.S. officials from Congress, the…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Human Rights in Sustainable Development

October 15, 2015

By Anita Dhanvanthari At the highly publicized Leaders’ Summit on Countering ISIL and Violent Extremism during the United Nations General Assembly on September 29, President…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Reprisals Against Children of Human Rights Defenders in UAE

October 9, 2015

On October 8, the U.N. Committee on the Rights of the Child released a report expressing “concern” about the United Arab Emirates’ treatment of human…

Learn More

Press

Nobel Peace Prize Awarded to Tunisian Civil Society

October 9, 2015

Human Rights First welcomes the award of the 2015 Nobel Peace Prize to the Tunisian National Dialogue Quartet. The Quartet, which is comprised of the…

Learn More

Blog

U.S. Quiet on Saudi Arabia’s Deplorable Use of Death Penalty

October 8, 2015

Last week President Obama denounced ISIL in his remarks to the U.N. General Assembly for “behead[ing] captives,” calling its conduct “an assault on all humanity.” Meanwhile, the…

Learn More

Press

U.S. Embassy in Athens Urged to Send Observers to Golden Dawn Criminal Trial

October 1, 2015

New York City—Human Rights First today called on the U.S. Embassy in Athens to send trial observers to the important criminal trial against the leadership and members…

Learn More

Press

Obama Emphasizes Importance of Human Rights Protection to CVE Strategy During UN Leaders’ Summit

September 29, 2015

New York City – In response to President Obama’s remarks during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Leaders’ Summit on Countering ISIL and Violent Extremism (CVE), Human…

Learn More

Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: September 28, 2015

September 28, 2015

Top News Global Refugee Crisis On Thursday, the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Immigration and National Interest Subcommittee will hold a hearing on the Obama Administration’s Fiscal…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Hungary Needs Policy Change, Not a PR Campaign

September 18, 2015

Hungary’s coldhearted response to the refugee crisis in Europe has tarnished its image among world audiences. The United Nation’s top human Rights official, Zeid Raad…

Learn More

Blog

Drastic “State of Emergency” Proposal a Misguided Response to Hungary’s Refugee Crisis

September 14, 2015

Hungary is preparing to declare a “state of emergency” on September 15th to authorize more severe measures to repel migrants seeking shelter and refuge. Its…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

Saudi Arabia Threatens FATF Progress

August 14, 2015

By Brian Dooley News that Saudi Arabia has been approved for observer status at the little-known but powerful Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is more…

Learn More

Blog

Massimo Evaluates the Obama Administration’s Human Rights Record on WBEZ’s Worldview

August 11, 2015

This week Elisa Massimino, Human Rights First’s President and CEO, spoke with Jerome McDonnell, host of Chicago radio show, WBEZ Worldview. On the program, Massimino…

Learn More

Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: August 3, 2015

August 3, 2015

Top News EGYPT Over the weekend the United States resumed formal security talks with Egypt, as part of the U.S.–Egypt Strategic Dialogue. The bilateral relationship…

Learn More

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,…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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,…

Learn More

Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: July 27, 2015

July 27, 2015

Top News KENYA During his weekend visit to Kenya, President Obama urged government officials to enhance national security by ending government corruption, engaging civil society, and enhancing human…

Learn More

Press

President Obama Emphasizes Role of Kenyan Civil Society in Countering Violent Extremism

July 26, 2015

Washington, D.C. – Following President Obama’s meetings today with civil society leaders during his trip to Kenya, Human Rights First’s Brian Dooley issued the following statement:…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Blog

During Trip, Obama Should Raise Case of Kenyan Detained at Guantanamo

July 23, 2015

By Brian Dooley This blog is cross-posted from the Huffington Post: President Obama has a long list of security-related issues to raise with the Kenyan government during…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

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…

Learn More

Letter

Letter to President Obama on Kenya

July 20, 2015

July 20, 2015 President Barack Obama The White House Dear President Obama: I am writing to urge that you make protection of human rights a…

Learn More

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…

Learn More