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…
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 —…
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…
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.…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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.”…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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.…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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),…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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.…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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
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…
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
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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
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…
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…
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…
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…
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
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…
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)…
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…
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
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…
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…
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
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’…
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…
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…
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
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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
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
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…
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…
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…
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…
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
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.…
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…
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…
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…
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
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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
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…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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:…
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
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…
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…
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…
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…