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We found 525 results for "Religious Freedom"

Blog

From Magnitsky to the Mothers of Mariupol

October 12, 2022

Congress Must Stand with Victims and Strengthen the Global Magnitsky Act By Mike Abramowitz In recent weeks, the world has once again been confronted with the…

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Blog

November Offers Ideal Time for Bahrain to Release Jailed Activists

October 6, 2022

By Brian Dooley Big month ahead for Bahrain: November will see elections, scrutiny of the country’s human rights record under the United Nations Universal Periodic…

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Topics

RELIGIOUS FREEDOM

September 19, 2022

We champion religious freedom with an emphasis on the danger of blasphemy laws. Many countries have instituted blasphemy laws in the name of protecting religious…

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Fact Sheet

Commission on Unalienable Rights: Resources

September 19, 2022

The following is a list of formal, written submissions received by the U.S. State Department’s Commission on Unalienable Rights from civil society organizations, human rights…

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Report

Pretense of Protection

August 3, 2022

Biden Administration and Congress Should Avoid Exacerbating Expedited Removal Deficiencies  The expedited removal process Congress created permits border officers to order the deportation of certain…

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Story

Refugee Voices – Awoke From Ethiopia

July 19, 2022

Protecting the persecuted is a core American ideal. At Human Rights First, we help asylum seekers who fled persecution and violence navigate the complex U.S.…

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Letter

Letter on Amendments that Would Codify Title 42

July 15, 2022

Dear Speaker Pelosi, Minority Leader McCarthy, Chairwoman DeLauro, and Ranking Member Granger, The undersigned civil society organizations write to express our grave concern regarding the…

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Testimony

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

June 9, 2022

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

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Press

Permanent Global Magnitsky Act Will Ensure Perpetrators Face Consequences

April 12, 2022

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following a yearlong advocacy campaign by Human Rights First and Freedom House, the organizations welcomed the permanent reauthorization of the Global Magnitsky…

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Blog

From Magnitsky to the Mothers of Mariupol

March 24, 2022

Congress Must Stand with Victims and Strengthen the Global Magnitsky Act By Mike Breen and Mike Abramowitz In recent weeks, the world has once again been confronted with…

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Fact Sheet

Religious freedom-related sanctions not possible under the Global Magnitsky Act

March 22, 2022

Human Rights First and Freedom House produced a fact sheet to explain how Global Magnitsky sanctions have helped protect international religious freedom – because the…

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Testimony

U.S. Asylum and Border Policies Resulting in Human Rights Violations

March 1, 2022

Human Rights First’s Submission for the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants pursuant to…

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Letter

Human Rights First Comment on Asylum Process Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

October 18, 2021

Human Rights First submits these comments in response to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) Executive Office for Immigration…

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Letter

NGO Letter to Biden Administration Expressing Profound Disappointment in Continued Violations of Refugee Law

August 6, 2021

Dear President Biden: As the world marks the 70th anniversary of the Refugee Convention, our 178 faith-based, humanitarian, legal services, immigration, and human rights organizations…

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Letter

Letter to DHS on Prolonged Detention of Asylum Seekers Following Guzman Chavez Ruling

July 21, 2021

Dear Secretary Mayorkas: We, the undersigned organizations and legal clinics, write to urge the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) to ensure that people seeking protection…

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Letter

Letter to President Biden on reported Title 42 expulsion policy extension

June 30, 2021

Dear President Biden: We, the 109 undersigned organizations, write to express our alarm and disappointment that your administration is reportedly considering plans to continue to…

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Fact Sheet

Do Expedited Asylum Screenings and Adjudications at the Border Work?

May 6, 2021

Expedited processing of asylum requests at the border hinges on unfair and unrealistic expectations that people seeking asylum, who on arrival at the border are…

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Letter

NGO Letter Urging DHS to Reject Use of Expedited Removal

February 16, 2021

Dear Secretary Mayorkas, Our undersigned faith-based, immigration, civil rights, and human rights organizations urge the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to reject the use of…

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Press

Human Rights First Welcomes the End of the Xenophobic Muslim, African Bans

January 20, 2021

WASHINGTON –– Today, President Joe Biden, in one of his first acts as president reversed the Trump administration’s ban on immigrants and refugees from Muslim-majority…

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Press

Trump Administration Enacts Rule Gutting Protection for Refugees and Asylum Seekers

December 10, 2020

WASHINGTON – In the waning days of the current administration, the Trump U.S. Departments of Homeland Security and Justice have rammed through a sweeping final…

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Letter

Human Rights First Urges Canada, U.K., to Join Global Magnitsky Sanctions Against Chinese Officials Responsible for Violating the Rights of Uyghurs

August 18, 2020

  August 18, 2020 Dear Minister Champagne, Secretary Mnuchin, Secretary Pompeo, and Foreign Secretary Raab, We, the 71 undersigned organizations dedicated to the promotion of…

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Press

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

May 18, 2020

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

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Press

Human Rights First Expresses Deep Concern to Trump Administration’s “Commission on Unalienable Rights”

April 16, 2020

After Observation of Commission’s Public Meetings, HRF Recommends Commission Focus on Correcting Administration’s Abysmal Human Rights Record Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today strongly urged…

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Press

HRF Concern Regarding Commission on Unalienable Rights

April 14, 2020

Department of State Commission on Unalienable Rights C/O Mr. F. Cartwright Weiland, Office of Policy Planning Prof. Mary Ann Glendon, Chair U.S. Department of State…

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Letter

Asylum Seekers in Remain in Mexico / “Migrant Protection Protocols” Policy

March 6, 2020

Dear Acting Secretary Wolf: Our 153 legal representation, refugee assistance, faith-based, human rights, and community groups write to urge your agency to end the “Migrant Protection Protocols” (“MPP”),…

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Testimony

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

January 28, 2020

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

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Press

El Salvador Agreement a Fatal Deal for Asylum Seekers

September 20, 2019

New York City—In response to reports that the United States and El Salvador entering into a “safe third country” or similar “asylum cooperation” agreement in the…

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Letter

2002 Iraq AUMF Repeal Provision in National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020

September 10, 2019

Dear Chairmen and Ranking Members: We, the undersigned, are a diverse group of organizations with a range of missions and perspectives from across the ideological…

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Letter

Coalition Letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the Commission on Unalienable Rights

July 22, 2019

The Honorable Michael Pompeo Secretary of State U.S. Department of State Washington, D.C. 20520   Dear Secretary Pompeo: We, the undersigned U.S. foreign policy, human…

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Press

Expanding Deportation Powers for ICE and CBP Officers will Lead to Chaos, Dysfunction

July 22, 2019

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today condemned the Trump Administration’s plan to immediately expand the use of expedited removal to allow Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection…

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Letter

Letter to Congress on AUMF Repeal

July 3, 2019

Dear Chairman Engel and Ranking Member McCaul: We, the undersigned, are a diverse group of organizations with a range of missions and perspectives from across…

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Press

New State Department Envoy to Combat Antisemitism Will Face Tough Challenges

February 5, 2019

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

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Letter

Open Letter from Non-Governmental Organizations in Support of a Targeted, Global EU Human Rights Sanctions Regime

December 5, 2018

December 05, 2018   OPEN LETTER FROM NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS IN SUPPORT OF A TARGETED, GLOBAL EU HUMAN RIGHTS SANCTIONS REGIME Dear Ministers of Foreign Affairs,…

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Blog

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

November 6, 2018

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

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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…

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Press

Human Rights First Marks the 17th Anniversary of the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks

September 11, 2018

Washington, D.C. – Today Human Rights First issued the following statement marking the 17th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, that resulted in the deaths…

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Blog

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

August 11, 2018

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

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Press

Human Rights First Files Amicus in Jennings v. Rodriguez, Urging Courts to Protect Due Process for Detainees

July 27, 2018

New York City—Human Rights First today filed an amicus brief with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in the case of Jennings v. Rodriguez, a case arguing that those…

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Press

Human Rights First Launches Freedom for Detained Refugees Project

July 19, 2018

Campaign Combines Representation, Litigation, and Advocacy to End the Detention of People Seeking Protection New York City—As the Trump Administration ramps up its efforts to lock up individuals fleeing…

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Press

New Resource Details Russian Government’s Efforts to Undermine Democracy, Human Rights, and Fundamental Freedoms

July 10, 2018

Washington, D.C.—In advance of President Trump’s July 16 meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Human Rights First today released a new fact sheet detailing how the Russian…

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Letter

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

May 23, 2018

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

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Blog

Trump’s Fabricated Border Crisis

April 12, 2018

By Eleanor Acer Over the last week, we once again witnessed President Trump’s harmful attempts to manufacture a crisis at the southern border when he directed the Department…

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Blog

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

April 12, 2018

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

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Press

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

April 4, 2018

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

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Walaa Ali

March 19, 2018

Our Leader Spotlights offer a glimpse into our diverse leadership: veterans and former interpreters and translators who are continuing to serve in creative ways. Today, we…

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Letter

Coalition Letter on Gina Haspel Nomination

March 16, 2018

Dear Senator, We write to express our grave concerns regarding the nomination of Gina Haspel for Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), and to…

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Fact Sheet

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

March 5, 2018

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

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Blog

Spirit of Unity at Congressional Breakfast on Combatting Antisemitism

February 22, 2018

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

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Blog

The Passing of Asma Jahangir

February 13, 2018

Human Rights First mourns the passing of the courageous, pioneering Pakistani lawyer and human rights defender, Asma Jahangir. We are proud of our long history of…

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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…

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Blog

Trump’s National Security Strategy Doesn’t Reflect His Reality

December 19, 2017

Yesterday, the Trump Administration released its National Security Strategy (NSS) describing the administration’s national security priorities and its proposed approach to them. The NSS acknowledges of the…

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Blog

Upholding the International Religious Freedom Act

October 30, 2017

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

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Press

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

October 11, 2017

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

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Testimony

Testimony of Robert G. Berschinski

October 11, 2017

Chairman DeSantis, Ranking Member Lynch, and members of the subcommittee, thank you for giving me the opportunity to testify today regarding the U.S. government’s important…

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Press

Senate Urged to Press Brownback to Clarify Remarks on Religious Persecution of LGBT People

October 5, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today expressed concern over Governor Sam Brownback’s (R-KS) failure to unequivocally state that it is not acceptable to imprison or execute…

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Blog

Key Questions for Brownback at Ambassador-at-large for International Religious Freedom Hearing

October 3, 2017

By , Erika Asgeirsson Kansas Governor Sam Brownback will testify on Wednesday before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on his nomination to be the Ambassador-at-Large…

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Press

NGOs Identify Human Rights Abusers, Corrupt Actors for Sanctions Under U.S. Bill

September 13, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today called on the Trump Administration to use the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act to levy targeted sanctions against individuals in 15 cases from…

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Press

U.S. Reportedly Withholding Aid to Egypt over Human Rights Abuses

August 22, 2017

New York City—Human Rights First today welcomed news, originally reported by Reuters, that the United States will deny Egypt $95.7 million of foreign assistance in response to Egypt’s failure to…

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Blog

Aligning American Foreign Policy to Protect Religious Freedom

August 21, 2017

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

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Blog

Stephen Miller and Emma’s Torch

August 10, 2017

By Rosalind Faulkner Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame, With conquering limbs astride from land to land; Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates…

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Blog

The Trump Administration Praises Anti-Democratic Rulers, Again

August 7, 2017

In a recent telephone call with Venezuelan opposition leader Leopoldo Lopez, Vice President Pence said: “The United States stands with the Venezuelan people, and we…

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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…

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Blog

Congressman Lowenthal Sued for Displaying Rainbow Flag

July 24, 2017

By Charlotte Parker Gliserman The rainbow flag has been an LGBT symbol since 1978, when Californian Gilbert Baker dyed and stitched the first Pride flag by…

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Issue Brief

The Rise in Criminal Prosecutions of Asylum Seekers

July 20, 2017

On January 25, 2017, President Donald Trump issued an executive order calling on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to make criminal prosecution of immigration offenses…

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Press

House Legislation Would Harm Asylum Seekers Entering the United States

June 29, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today condemned the passage of legislation that would subject asylum seekers to criminal prosecutions, a violation of the Protocol Relating to…

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Press

House Bill Would Codify Trump Executive Order on Refugees

June 28, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged members of Congress to reject legislation that would essentially codify President Trump’s executive order targeting refugees fleeing violence and…

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Press

Court Rules that Family Detention Violates Flores Agreement

June 28, 2017

New York City—Human Rights First today praised a California district court ruling finding that the federal government’s use of family detention facilities  continues to violate…

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Blog

Despite Decisive Victory, Macron and En Marche Face Deep Divisions

June 23, 2017

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

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Blog

America on the Brink of Identity Loss in the Refugee Crisis

June 20, 2017

By Rosalind Faulkner Human Rights First board member Antony Blinken recently penned an op-ed for The New York Times on what the United States stands to lose by rejecting…

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Press

Ninth Circuit Rejects Trump Administration’s Executive Order Barring Refugees

June 12, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today applauded the unanimous decision of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals that holds that the Trump Administration’s executive order banning…

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Press

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

June 8, 2017

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

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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…

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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…

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Press

Bipartisan Legislation an Important Step to Fight Antisemitism in Europe

May 22, 2017

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

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: May 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…

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Blog

DHS Secretary Kelly Using Alt-Facts about Asylum

May 10, 2017

By Eleanor Acer Last Friday, Secretary of Homeland Security John F. Kelly defended the controversial deportation of a Honduran woman and her young child. “Now remember the vast…

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Report

Crossing the Line: U.S. Border Agents Illegally Reject Asylum Seekers

May 3, 2017

The U.S. government is illegally turning away asylum seekers at official land crossings all along the southern border. Border agents must refer a person seeking…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: May 1, 2017

May 1, 2017

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

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Amicus Brief

Amicus Brief: Court of Appeals Ninth Circuit – State of Hawaii V. Donald J. Trump

April 24, 2017

As President George Washington wrote to a religious minority community containing many immigrants in 1790, “the Government of the United States . . . gives…

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Press

Administration Urged to Appoint Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism

April 14, 2017

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

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Blog

Religious Animus Also Underlies Trump’s Refugee Resettlement Reduction

April 14, 2017

Two weeks ago, a federal judge upgraded his temporary restraining order to a preliminary injunction, indefinitely blocking sections two and six of President Trump’s revised executive order on refugees and…

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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…

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Amicus Brief

Pars Equality Center vs Donald J. Trump

April 11, 2017

SUMMARY OF ARGUMENT As President George Washington wrote to a religious minority community containing many immigrants in 1790, “the Government of the United States .…

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Blog

Lance Sellon: Veteran+

April 4, 2017

Meet Major Lance Sellon. He’s an Army National Guard Chaplain with deployments to Afghanistan and Africa. He’s also a youth minister, a husband, and a…

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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…

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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…

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Amicus Brief

Amicus Brief: State of Hawaii V. Donald J. Trump

March 15, 2017

Summary of Argument As President George Washington wrote to a religious minority community containing many immigrants in 1790, “the Government of the United States .…

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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…

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Press

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

March 13, 2017

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

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Blog

Six Questions for State’s First Press Briefing Under Tillerson

March 7, 2017

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

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Blog

Fighting Antisemitism at Home and Abroad

March 7, 2017

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

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Press

Revised Executive Order on Refugees Continues to Betray Ideals, Put America at Risk

March 6, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today condemned President Trump’s executive order signed today suspending the refugee resettlement program, and banning the issuance of new visas and…

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Blog

Sebastian Gorka’s Xenophobic Equivocations on Islam

March 3, 2017

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

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Press

New Report Examines Asylum Violations in El Paso as Trump Implements Executive Orders

February 28, 2017

New York City—As the Trump Administration begins to implement the president’s executive order on immigration enforcement along the southern border, Human Rights First today released…

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Blog

Immigration Courts Lack Funding – Trump Uses Backlogs to Justify Blocking Access

February 23, 2017

This blog is cross posted with The Huffington Post Over the last ten years, funding for immigration courts has remained largely stagnant, even as funding for…

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Amicus Brief

State of Washington v. Donald Trump Refugee Executive Order Appeal

February 7, 2017

This is an excerpt, download full Amicus Brief (PDF) below. SUMMARY OF ARGUMENT As an initial matter, our nation’s laws make clear that this appeal…

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Blog

Faith Leaders Join Forces against Trump’s Executive Order

February 3, 2017

(Image courtesy of Interfaith Conference of Metropolitan Washington) Thousands of faith leaders have voiced strong opposition to President Trump’s executive order banning immigrants—including refugees— from…

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Blog

Eight Ways Trump’s Executive Order on Immigration Makes Us Less Safe

February 2, 2017

This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post In issuing his executive order immediately banning refugees and hundreds of thousands of Muslim travelers from the United…

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Blog

Business Community Embraces “American Ideals” in Response to Trump’s Immigration Ban

February 1, 2017

The business community is far from silent in response to President Trump’s Executive Order halting refugee resettlement and banning immigrants from certain Middle Eastern countries.…

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Letter

Letter from Veterans Urging President Trump to Reconsider Executive Order Barring Refugees and Migrants

January 30, 2017

January 29, 2017 President Donald J. Trump The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Washington, D.C., 20050   Dear Mr. President: I am writing on behalf…

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Blog

Executive Orders Could Block Access to Asylum for Vulnerable Individuals

January 27, 2017

With Wednesday’s executive order, “Border Security and Immigration Enforcement Improvements,” President Trump seems poised to block access to asylum at the U.S. border, subjecting asylum seekers…

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Press

“Extreme Vetting” Executive Order Targets Vulnerable Refugees

January 27, 2017

New York City— Human Rights First today condemned an executive order on the entry of refugees that will block and derail resettlement of thoroughly screened refugees,…

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Blog

Trump Win Encourages Europe’s Far Right

December 16, 2016

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

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Blog

Merkel’s Burka Ban: How Far-Right Parties are Shifting Political Dialogue

December 12, 2016

By Erika Asgeirsson Last week Chancellor Angela Merkel accepted the nomination for her party, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), in hopes of serving her fourth…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: December 12, 2016

December 12, 2016

Top Items Human Rights Summit Tomorrow Human Rights First will host its fifth annual Human Rights Summit at the Newseum in Washington, D.C. The afternoon…

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Blog

Barring Refugees Would Hurt National Security

December 5, 2016

This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post: Just days before the nation celebrated Thanksgiving, an AP photographer snapped a picture of Kris Kobach’s proposed…

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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…

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Video

A note from Human Rights First’s President and CEO Elisa Massimino

November 22, 2016

Right now the future seems uncertain. Given President-elect Donald Trump’s brash promises on the campaign trail, some fear that our most cherished ideals—human rights, the…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Mansoor Shams

November 21, 2016

As part of United Religions Initiative North America’s #TangibleHope campaign, Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building…

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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…

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Press

New Analysis Finds Hurdles to Release, Asylum in New Jersey Immigration Detention Facilities

November 17, 2016

New York City—Human Rights First today released a report detailing high rates of immigration detention of asylum seekers in New Jersey, which finds that asylum seekers are often detained…

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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…

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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…

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Press

Bipartisan Legislation Addresses Growing Antisemitism in Europe

October 11, 2016

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

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Press

Iraqi Couple Saving Yazidi Girls from ISIS to Receive Human Rights First Award

October 7, 2016

New York City – Human Rights First will honor Iraqi human rights activists Khaleel Aldakhi and Ameena Saeed Hasan with its 2016 Human Rights First Award. The…

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Press

New Analysis Finds Hurdles to Release, Asylum in Georgia Immigration Detention Facilities

September 22, 2016

Washington, D.C.—In a new analysis released today, Human Rights First found that asylum seekers and immigrants detained in Georgia are often held for long periods of time…

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A Missed Opportunity on Burma, Human Trafficking

September 21, 2016

By Alexander Strain Burmese Nobel Peace Prize laureate and State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi met with President Obama last week. It was an ideal…

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Washington Week on Human Rights: September 12, 2016

September 12, 2016

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

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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…

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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…

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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…

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Report

Lifeline on Lockdown: Increased U.S. Detention of Asylum Seekers

August 26, 2016

  War, repression, terrorism, and rampant human rights violations have conspired to produce what’s commonly called the global refugee crisis. There are more than 20…

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Bahrain Detains Leading Neurosurgeon

August 18, 2016

UPDATE: at 7pm on August 23rd Bahraini authorities released Dr. Alderazi from detention. His next hearing date will be on Monday, August 29th. By Jude Ali…

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Putting the International Religious Freedom Report into Action

August 16, 2016

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

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Reflections on Being Muslim in America

August 16, 2016

By Kate Horner Muslims in the United States and throughout the Western world increasingly find themselves defending their faith as they live in fear of…

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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…

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Press

Detained Mothers Begin Hunger Strike at Berks Immigration Detention Facility

August 11, 2016

New York City–Human Rights First today renewed its calls on the Obama Administration to end its policy of detaining women and children seeking U.S. protection following the…

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Fact Sheet

Islamophobia in America

August 2, 2016

What is Islamophobia? Islamophobia is an unfounded fear and hostility toward Islam and Muslims that results in discrimination, bias, marginalization, and at times, violence. It…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: August 1, 2016

August 1, 2016

Top News Immigration Detention This Wednesday, August 3rd the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) and Human Rights First will host a breakfast discussion on…

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Veteran: Anti-Muslim Rhetoric an Assault on Nation’s Ideals

July 28, 2016

By Joe Jenkins Hours after the horrific terrorist attack in Nice, France, on July 14th, former Speaker of the House of Representatives Newt Gingrich declared,…

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In the Face of Terror, France Moves Towards Religious Unity

July 28, 2016

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

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Blog

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…

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Fact Sheet

Refugee Protection Act of 2016

July 14, 2016

THE REFUGEE PROTECTION ACT OF 2016 Why is the Refugee Act of 2016 important? The United States has a proud history of providing refuge to…

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Washington Week on Human Rights: July 11, 2016

July 11, 2016

TOP ITEMS Global Refugee Crisis This week, the House Committee on Appropriations will markup the Fiscal Year 2017 State and Foreign Operations Bill. In its…

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Former Russian Ballet Dancer Imprisoned at Gitmo Since 2002 Receives Review Board Hearing

June 21, 2016

The Guantanamo Periodic Review Board (PRB) convened this morning to consider the case of Ravil Mingazov, a 48-year-old ethnic Tatar from Russia. Mingazov has been imprisoned at…

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Press

On World Refugee Day National Security Leaders, Retired Military Leaders, and Former Government Leaders Pledge Support for Refugee Protection

June 20, 2016

Washington, D.C. – In honor of World Refugee Day, 28 of the nation’s most prominent national security leaders, retired military leaders, and former government officials today publicly called on…

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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…

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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…

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Washington Week on Human Rights: June 6, 2016

June 6, 2016

Top Items Human Trafficking This week Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the United States. In advance of the visit, Human Rights First is urging the State Department to press…

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Washington Week on Human Rights: May 31, 2016

May 31, 2016

Top Items Guantanamo Yesterday at the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, proceedings began in a pre-trial hearing for accused 9/11 terrorist Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and…

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Blog

Sharing Worst Practice: New Publication on Russia’s Traditional Values Foreign Policy

May 26, 2016

On May 15-19, attendees at a conference in Tbilisi, Georgia railed against threats they described as “homofascism,” “rainbow radicalism,” “demographic winter,” and “cultural Marxism.” These conference-goers…

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

May 26, 2016

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

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Washington Week on Human Rights: May 23, 2016

May 23, 2016

Top News Guantanamo On Tuesday, the House Oversight and Government Reform National Security Subcommittee will hold a hearing examining the remaining detainees at the U.S. detention…

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The World Humanitarian Summit and Beyond

May 20, 2016

By Eleanor Acer At the World Humanitarian Summit on Monday and Tuesday, May 23-24, nations, humanitarian organizations, and civil society actors will identify ways to better address the…

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Senators Press Obama to Meet Commitment to Resettle 10,000 Syrian Refugees this Fiscal Year

May 18, 2016

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today applauded a group of 27 senators for expressing support for the resettlement of Syrian refugees and calling on the…

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Press

Bipartisan Legislation Introduced to Block Religious Discrimination Against Refugees and Immigrants

May 11, 2016

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today welcomed the introduction of the Freedom of Religion Act, a piece of legislation that would ensure that no individual can be denied…

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Germany’s AfD Party Conference Endorses Islamophobic Manifesto

May 6, 2016

By Timothy Meyers Last weekend Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party held a conference in Stuttgart to outline the party’s political manifesto ahead of the national…

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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…

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Press

United States Resettles 451 Syrian Refugees in April

May 3, 2016

New York City—The State Department today released its official resettlement numbers for April, indicating that it resettled 451 Syrian refugees last month. This brings the…

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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…

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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…

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Blog

Freedom of Expression and Religious Tolerance Under Fire in Germany

April 26, 2016

By Timothy Meyers As Human Rights First’s Susan Corke reported last week, Germany faces an array of daunting challenges, from the refugee crisis to the rise…

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Blog

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

April 25, 2016

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

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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…

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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…

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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,…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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Fact Sheet

Human Rights Defenders and Political Prisoners in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain

April 14, 2016

Saudi Arabia Waleed Abu al-Khair: Imprisoned in Saudi Arabia on Politicized Charges Waleed Abu al-Khair is a Saudi attorney and human rights defender and the…

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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…

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Blog

Deserving Asylum Seekers are Trapped in Detention, Like Military Interpreter Samey

April 5, 2016

In an op-ed published in Sunday’s New York Times, Elizabeth Rubin describes the long and harsh ordeal Samey Honaryar, a man from Afghanistan, suffered while seeking asylum…

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Press

Six Months in, United States has Resettled only 1,285 of 10,000 Pledged Syrian Refugees

April 5, 2016

New York City – Human Rights First today released a new report detailing the slow progress the Obama Administration has made in the first six months of FY 2016 toward its goal…

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Blog

French Minister Disregards Right to Religious Expression

April 1, 2016

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

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Blog

One Step Forward, Two Steps Back: Ukraine’s Missteps on Protecting the Rights of LGBT People

March 31, 2016

By Dylan Rasnick In mid-March, Equality Festival Lviv was forced to cancel its weekend events because venues retracted sponsorship, the local government banned all public events, and…

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Press

In Testimony, Human Rights First Urges U.S. to Protect National Security while Upholding Human Rights of Refugees

March 23, 2016

Washington, D.C.—In testimony before the House of Representatives, Human Rights First’s Eleanor Acer urged the U.S. government to take steps to protect our national security while also…

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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…

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Washington Week on Human Rights: March 14, 2016

March 14, 2016

Top News Targeted Killing Last week, the Obama Administration announced that it will publish civilian and combatant casualty assessments for lethal counterterrorism strikes outside areas of…

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Press

Bill Would Diminish Ability of United States to Resettle Refugee Victims of Mass Atrocities

March 14, 2016

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged members of Congress to reject legislation that would severely hamper the United States’ ability to provide safety for those…

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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…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: March 7, 2016

March 7, 2016

Top News Baby Barristers Last week, The Washington Post  reported that Judge John H. Weil, a senior-immigration judge responsible for training other judges, claimed in a deposition…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: February 29, 2016

February 29, 2016

Top News Guantanamo Last week the Pentagon sent Congress the Obama Administration’s plan to close the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The plan includes…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: February 22, 2016

February 22, 2016

Top News Guantanamo Tomorrow is the statutory deadline for the Obama Administration to give Congress its plan for closing the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: February 16, 2016

February 16, 2016

Top News Torture Last week 42 of the nation’s most respected retired generals and admirals released a letter sent to all candidates for president urging them to publicly…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: February 8, 2016

February 8, 2016

Top News President Obama’s Budget Tomorrow President Obama will release his final budget request, which is expected to contain increased funding to address immigration court case backlogs. Human…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: February 1, 2016

February 3, 2016

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

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Press

Human Rights First Calls for Nominations for 27th Annual Roger N. Baldwin Medal of Liberty Award

January 27, 2016

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today announced that nominations are now open for the 2016 Roger N. Baldwin Medal of Liberty Award.  The 2016…

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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…

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Blog

Eye on LGBT Human Rights in Tajikistan

January 12, 2016

By Shawn M. Gaylord At the end of 2015 I had a chance to meet with several LGBT activists from Tajikistan. Most Americans know little about this…

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Blog

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

January 6, 2016

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

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Blog

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

December 23, 2015

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

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Blog

U.N. Security Council Holds First Session on Human Trafficking

December 22, 2015

Last Wednesday the United States hosted the first ever U.N. Security Council session on human trafficking in armed conflict. Nick Grono, head of the Freedom Fund—a…

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Press

Hungarian Government Abandons Statue Honoring Antisemite

December 21, 2015

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

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Press

Hungary Delays Statue of Antisemite

December 16, 2015

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

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Press

Human Rights First Urges Hungary to Abandon Antisemitic Statue

December 15, 2015

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

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Press

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

December 4, 2015

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

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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…

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Press

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

November 15, 2015

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

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Blog

Young European Activists Combating Antisemitism Appear on Brian Lehrer Show

October 26, 2015

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

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: October 26, 2015

October 26, 2015

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

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Press

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

October 21, 2015

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

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Press

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

October 15, 2015

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

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Press

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…

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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…

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Press

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

September 24, 2015

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

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Blog

Bahrain’s Proposed Blasphemy Law: Another Tool to Silence Regime’s Critics

September 16, 2015

Bahrain is considering a new blasphemy law, which will likely be used to harass and silence the regime’s critics. Cleric Sheikh Maytham Al Salman, head…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: September 14, 2015

September 14, 2015

Top News Global Refugee Crisis Last week, the Obama Administration announced that it plans to increase the annual ceiling for refugee admissions to the United…

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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…

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Blog

European Governments Should Protect Vulnerable Minorities

August 27, 2015

By Christina Miliou Refugees are pouring into Europe at historic records, many fleeing conflict in the Middle East. But their struggles don’t end when they…

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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…

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Blog

Night at the Newseum – Shame: HIV/AIDS and the Church in Jamaica

July 16, 2015

By Theo Salem-Mackall How LGBT individuals are treated by society at large can be a direct result of Church positions on homosexuality and the family.…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: July 13, 2015

July 13, 2015

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

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Report

The World as it Should Be

July 9, 2015

Advancing the Human Rights of LGBT People in Jamaica Executive Summary Human Rights First traveled to Jamaica in March 2015 and interviewed members of the…

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Blog

Allies’ Human Rights Practices Harm Anti-ISIL Effort

July 1, 2015

By Jordan Dannenberg Human rights abuses are fueling the Islamic State of Iraq in the Levant (ISIL). Testifying before the House Armed Services Subcommittee on…

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Press

U.S. Government Should Promote Global Counterterrorism Strategy Rooted in Human Rights

June 26, 2015

New York City—Today, in response to terrorist attacks in Kuwait and Tunisia, Human Rights First urged the U.S. government to redouble its efforts to combat…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: June 22, 2015

June 23, 2015

Top News Combatting Violent Extremism This week, from June 24-28, Kenya will host a regional conference on countering violent extremism. The gathering will bring together more…

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Blog

Freedom of Expression and Countering Violent Extremism

June 23, 2015

By Anita Dhanvanthari This week Kenya is hosting a Regional Conference on Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) and invited a broad range of people and organizations to…

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Blog

Fighting Bahrain’s Sectarian Threat

June 3, 2015

This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post: Rocked by last week’s bombings of Shia mosques in Saudi Arabia which killed dozens of people, Bahrain’s…

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Transcript

One Year After the Southern Border Crisis

June 3, 2015

Media Telebriefing: One Year After the Southern Border Crisis: Experts to Discuss Growing Bipartisan Ire About Obama Administration’s Un-American Family Detention Practices Below is a…

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Blog

Two Meetings, Two Policies?

May 21, 2015

This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post: Today President Obama will meet with Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi at the White House. The…

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Press

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

May 19, 2015

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

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: May 18, 2015

May 18, 2015

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

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Letter

Letter to Kyrgyzstan Parliament on Anti-LGBT Legislation

May 11, 2015

May 5, 2015 Asylbek Sharipovich Jeenbekov Speaker of Jogorku Kenesh 205, Chui Prospekt Bishkek 720003 Kyrgyzstan Dear Speaker Asylbek Sharipovich: We write to express our deep…

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Fact Sheet

How to Build a More Sustainable and Mutually Beneficial Relationship with Saudi Arabia

May 10, 2015

“Too often, we have failed to enforce international norms when it’s inconvenient to do so. And we have not confronted forcefully enough the intolerance, sectarianism,…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: April 13, 2015

April 13, 2015

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

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Fact Sheet

How to Build a More Sustainable and Mutually Beneficial Relationship with Saudi Arabia

March 10, 2015

“Too often, we have failed to enforce international norms when it’s inconvenient to do so. And we have not confronted forcefully enough the intolerance, sectarianism,…

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Press

United States Should Overhaul Relationship With Saudi Arabia to Support Human Rights

March 10, 2015

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today urged the Obama Administration to press the Saudi government to ease its crackdown on civil society, speak out…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: March 9, 2015

March 9, 2015

Top News WAR AUTHORIZATION On Wednesday morning, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee will hold a hearing on the president’s request for Authorization to Use Military…

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Press

House Judiciary Committee Should Reject Bills that Undermine U.S. Protection of Refugees, Children

March 2, 2015

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged members of the House Judiciary Committee Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security to reject the Asylum Reform and Border…

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Press

House Judiciary Committee Should Reject Bills that Undermine U.S. Protection of Refugees, Children

March 2, 2015

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged members of the House Judiciary Committee Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security to reject the Asylum Reform and Border…

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Press

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

February 19, 2015

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

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Press

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

February 17, 2015

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

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Press

President Obama Urged to Prioritize Human Rights at White House Summit on Countering Violent Extremism

February 13, 2015

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First and the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies today urged President Obama to make clear at the White House’s upcoming…

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Press

Congress Should Reject Bills that Undermine U.S. Asylum System

February 11, 2015

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged members of Congress to reject proposed legislation that would severely undermine our nation’s commitment to refugees and asylum seekers…

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Press

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

February 9, 2015

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

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Letter

Joint Letter to President Obama on the CIA Torture Report

January 28, 2015

January 28, 2015 President Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, NW Washington, DC 20500 Dear Mr. President: We write to express our serious…

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Fact Sheets, Testimony

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

January 23, 2015

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

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Blog

New Year, New Congress: What to Watch on Middle East Policy

January 13, 2015

By Brian Dooley As Congress enters its 114th session, human rights must take the spotlight. Below are five foreign policy priorities that we at Human…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: December 15, 2014

December 15, 2014

Top News CIA TORTURE REPORT Last week, the Senate intelligence committee released the executive summary executive summary of its landmark report on the CIA’s post-9/11 detention and interrogation…

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Press

Renewed Waiver Weakens Human Rights Conditions Attached to Egypt Foreign Aid Bill

December 15, 2014

New York City – Human Rights First today said that the national security waiver attached to  Egyptian aid provisions for FY 2015 in the new omnibus spending…

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Press

Senate Confirms Rabbi Saperstein as Ambassador for International Religious Freedom

December 13, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First welcomed the Senate’s confirmation of Rabbi David Saperstein as Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom. Rabbi Saperstein was nominated in July…

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Press

Obama Administration Should Raise Human Rights Concerns at Manama Dialogue

December 2, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today urged the U.S. delegation to the Manama Dialogue to publicly raise concern over heightened sectarianism and ongoing human rights abuses in…

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Issue Brief

At Manama Dialogue, Building an Effective Global Coalition to Counter ISIL Should Not Include Uncritical Support for Non-inclusive and Repressive Regimes

December 2, 2014

From December 5-7, 2014 a senior delegation from the United States will participate in the tenth annual Manama Security Dialogue. The Manama Dialogue is a…

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Press

Obama Administration Should Raise Human Rights Concerns During Conference of Coalition to Counter ISIL in Bahrain

November 6, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today urged the Obama Administration to publicly raise concern over the Bahraini government’s ongoing human rights abuses as the Kingdom…

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Blog

Don’t Blame New Freedoms for Violent Religious Extremism

October 23, 2014

This is a cross post from The Huffington Post Dictatorships do a great deal more to create and maintain violent religious extremism than liberalization has done…

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Press

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

October 20, 2014

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

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Press

U.S. Sanctions Target Corrupt Hungarian Officials

October 17, 2014

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

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: October 14, 2014

October 14, 2014

Top News KERRY TO CAIRO Secretary of State John Kerry is in Cairo today to participate in an international conference of 50 nations pledging $5…

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Press

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

October 14, 2014

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

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Press

Extremist Party Poised to Gain Seats in Hungarian Local Elections

October 10, 2014

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

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Press

Community of Democracies Should Reexamine Hungary’s Membership

September 26, 2014

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

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Press

Human Rights First’s Tad Stahnke Testifies on Religious Freedom and National Security

September 18, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First’s Tad Stahnke will testify before Congress today and detail recommendations for the U.S. government to advance U.S. policy on international…

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Testimony

Testimony of Tad Stahnke on Meeting Current International Religious Freedom and National Security Challenges

September 18, 2014

Testimony of Tad Stahnke before the house committee on oversight and government reform subcommittee on national security: “Meeting Current International Religious Freedom and National Security…

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Press

Human Rights First Statement on 13th Anniversary of 9/11

September 11, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Today, Human Rights First issued the following statement marking the 13th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001: “On this anniversary, we…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: September 8, 2014

September 8, 2014

Top News ISIS President Obama will deliver an address on Wednesday to detail the administration’s plan for responding to the violence committed by the Islamic State…

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Press

Ibrahim to be Granted Asylum in the United States

July 31, 2014

Washington DC – Human Rights First today welcomed news reports that Mariam Yahia Ibrahim Ishag, a Sudanese woman who was given a death sentence in…

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Press

Human Rights First Urges the Obama Administration to Make International Religious Freedom a Policy Priority

July 30, 2014

Washington, D.C. –  Human Rights First today said that following the nomination of Rabbi David Saperstein for Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom, the Obama…

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Blog

United States Highlights Bahrain Sectarianism in New Religious Freedom Report

July 28, 2014

By Brian Dooley This is a cross post from The Huffington Post. Today’s State Department report on international religious freedom for 2013 is unlikely to…

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Press

Proposed House Bill Would Undermine Access to Asylum and Protection

July 18, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today expressed serious concern over the Asylum Reform and Border Protection Act of 2014, a bill sponsored by Reps.…

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Testimony

U.S. Family Crisis at the Border Media Telebriefing

July 17, 2014

Below is a shortened transcript of the July 16 media telebriefing featuring former Commissioner of the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Services (INS) under George W.…

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Testimony

Congressional Statement on the Border Crisis

July 10, 2014

Statement submitted for the Senate Appropriations Committee Hearing On “Review of the President’s Emergency Supplemental Request for Unaccompanied Children and Related Matters. Human Rights First…

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Testimony

Recommendations for an Emergency Supplemental Fund to Protect Families and Asylum Seekers at the U.S.-Mexico Border

July 8, 2014

1. Fund an Alternatives to Detention (ATD) Initiative Justification: Immigration detention facilities are not appropriate settings for children and parents with children. Furthermore, there are…

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Press

State Department Urged to Act Swiftly to Secure Departure for Sudanese Christian Woman

June 27, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First urges U.S. diplomats to continue to press the Sudanese government to allow Mariam Yahia Ibrahim Ishag to leave the country.…

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Blog

Asylum Seekers Facing Religious and other Persecution Impacted by Impediments to Protection, in Europe and the United States

June 24, 2014

A piece in Sunday’s New York Times, “A Christian, Convert on the Run in Afghanistan,” tells the story of an Afghan Christian convert who sought…

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Press

Problematic Laws Remain Intact as Sudan Frees Ibrahim

June 23, 2014

Washington DC – Human Rights First today welcomed the release of Mariam Yahia Ibrahim Ishag, a Sudanese woman who had been given a death sentence in…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: June 23, 2014

June 23, 2014

Top News CRISIS IN IRAQ Secretary of State… Read More

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Fact Sheet

Congressional Recommendations: How to Manage the Increase in Asylum Seekers at the Border

June 23, 2014

During the past few years, the number of people arriving at the southern U.S. border expressing a fear of return to their home countries has…

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Fact Sheet

How to Manage the Increase in Families at the Border

June 20, 2014

The current surge of migrants crossing the southern U.S. border reflects a sharp increase in the number of unaccompanied minors, children crossing with one or…

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Press

Ayotte and Shaheen Introduce Bill to Protect Christian Woman in Sudan

June 18, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today said legislation introduced by New Hampshire Senators Kelly Ayotte (R) and Jeanne Shaheen (D) to grant legal status to…

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Press

Policymakers Urged to Protect Refugees and Prevent Abuse at U.S. – Mexico Border

June 5, 2014

Washington, D.C. – As the U.S. government grapples with the humanitarian crisis surrounding the number of children, families and asylum seekers crossing the southern border, Human…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: May 27, 2014

May 27, 2014

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

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Press

Compendium Details Blasphemy Laws Challenging Human Rights Worldwide

May 22, 2014

New York City – Human Rights First and the Human Rights and Genocide Clinic of Cardozo Law School today released the first publicly available compendium to outline blasphemy…

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Report

Compendium of Blasphemy Laws

May 20, 2014

Legislation that seeks to criminalize those who insult or defame religions, or commit blasphemy often leads to human rights abuses. These laws prohibit injuring religious…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: May 12, 2014

May 12, 2014

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

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Fact Sheet

The U.S. Asylum System: Protecting the Persecuted, Fighting Fraud

April 29, 2014

The United States has a long history of protecting people who flee political, religious or other persecution. In the wake of WWII, the international community…

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Press

Boehner Remarks Signal Willingness to Move Forward on Immigration Reform

April 25, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First applauds recent statements from Speaker of the House John Boehner indicating that he wants to proceed with an immigration…

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Blog

Bipartisan Call to Address Impact of Immigration Inadmissibility Provisions

April 2, 2014

By Eleanor Acer Sweeping Definitions Block Case by Case Refugee Determinations, keep U.S. from living up to its Ideals. In today’s USA Today, Elliot Abrams, former deputy…

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Fact Sheet

Supporters of Declassifying the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Report on the CIA Detention and Interrogation Program

March 25, 2014

Affiliations are for identification purposes only. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA): “We’re not going to stop. I intend to move to have the findings, conclusions and the…

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Fact Sheet

FAQ About Asylum and the Border

March 21, 2014

The United States has a long history of protecting people who flee political, religious or other persecution. Providing refuge is a cornerstone of American values.…

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Blog

Anti-Gay Activist Marches in Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade

March 20, 2014

By Simone Salvo As St. Patrick’s Day festivities this year were again steeped in predictable controversy, the annual parade in Boston was particularly, uh, lively. While…

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Blog

Russia’s Newest Export: Anti-“Propaganda” Laws

March 18, 2014

by Trevor Allen Is the anti-gay “propaganda” law destined to be Russia’s number one export? The Russian LGBT community is anxiously watching as analogous laws banning…

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Letter

Letter to Obama about Saudi Influence on Regional Human Rights Conditions

March 11, 2014

An open letter from Human Rights First President and CEO Elisa Massimino calling upon President Barack Obama to urge the government of Saudi Arabia to cooperate…

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Press

Political Arrests in Sochi Reflect Russia’s Escalating Crackdown on Dissent

February 18, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today expressed concern over news reports that Russian authorities have arrested activists, journalists, and political dissenters – including Nadezhda Tolokonnikova…

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Testimony

Human Rights First Congressional Testimony: Asylum Fraud: Abusing America’s Compassion?

February 11, 2014

Testimony of Human Rights First’s Eleanor Acer On “Asylum Fraud: Abusing America’s Compassion?” Submitted to the House Judiciary Committee, Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security February 11,…

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Press

Human Rights First’s Eleanor Acer Testifies on Integrity of U.S. Asylum System

February 11, 2014

Washington, D.C.– Human Rights First’s Eleanor Acer will testify before Congress today and detail recommendations for the U.S. government to protect the integrity and effectiveness of…

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Press

Human Rights First Calls for Nominations for 25th Annual Roger N. Baldwin Medal of Liberty Award

February 11, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First is now accepting nominations for the 2014 Roger N. Baldwin Medal of Liberty which recognizes an individual or organization who…

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Press

Republican Leaders Release Statement in Support of U.S. Commitment to Refugees

February 10, 2014

Washington, D.C. –   As Republican leaders in Congress work through the party’s immigration reform priorities, ten of the nation’s most prominent Republican leaders released a statement today…

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Press

Faith Leaders Urged to Tackle Human Rights Issues at National Prayer Breakfast

February 5, 2014

Washington, D.C. – As leaders from around the globe convene in Washington this week for the annual National Prayer Breakfast hosted by the U.S. Congress and…

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Press

President Obama Urged to Suspend Aid to Egypt Until Human Rights are Restored

February 2, 2014

Washington, D.C. – The Working Group on Egypt today sent a letter to President Barack Obama urging him to suspend aid to Egypt until it makes strides in its transition…

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Press

Report Recommends Overhaul of U.S. Strategy in Egypt

January 23, 2014

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today released a report that describes how the Egyptian government is increasingly targeting non-violent dissenters through widespread repression in Egypt, stifling basic freedoms…

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Report

Back to Square One: The U.S. Government and Political Change in Egypt

January 22, 2014

Human Rights First’s report describes how the Egyptian government is increasingly targeting non-violent dissenters through widespread repression in Egypt, stifling basic freedoms and exacerbating the…

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Report

Back to Square One: The U.S. Government and Political Change in Egypt

January 22, 2014

Human Rights First’s report describes how the Egyptian government is increasingly targeting non-violent dissenters through widespread repression in Egypt, stifling basic freedoms and exacerbating the…

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Impact Study

Working With Frontline Activists to Protect Religious Freedom

December 23, 2013

In 2010, Shehrbano Taseer  accompanied her father Salman Taseer, the governor of Punjab province in Pakistan, to a prison to visit Aasia Bibi, a poor…

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Blog

Lessons of the Debate Over Ireland’s Blasphemy Law

November 14, 2013

Recently, Ireland’s Convention on the Constitution discussed removing the offense of blasphemy from Irish law. Currently, a person found guilty of publishing or uttering “blasphemous…

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Blog

7 Things to Watch in the Jeh Johnson Confirmation Hearing

November 13, 2013

Today the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs will hold a confirmation hearing for President Obama’s nominee, Jeh Johnson, to lead the Department…

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Blog

New ICE Parole Directive for Asylum Seekers Reverses Prior Guidance

November 12, 2013

A new directive issued by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) last week is expected to make it more difficult for victims of persecution to receive…

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Opinion

Washington Post: Religious freedom isn’t just an American value

October 27, 2013

Op-ed by Elisa Massimino. Opponents of Morsi pray in Tahrir Square in Cairo. Anti-Morsi protesters have set up camp in the square, the site of…

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Blog

From Pirates to Hooligans: Greenpeace Joins a Distinguished Club

October 23, 2013

By Innokenty Grekov Fighting Discrimination Program This is a cross-post from The Huffington Post. The investigative committee of the Russian Federation has re-classified the charges against Greenpeace…

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Blog

Protecting the Persecuted is not a Card Game

October 17, 2013

By Eleanor Acer An article in today’s Wall Street Journal gives an incomplete picture of the asylum and immigration systems along the U.S. southern border and misses the…

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Press

U.S. Should Set Clear Conditions for Egyptian Aid Restoration

October 9, 2013

Washington, D.C.  – Human Rights First today urged the Obama Administration to clarify the conditions under which it would restore aid to Egypt. Yesterday, the…

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Blog

Top Ten Questions Malinowski Should Face during Today’s Confirmation Hearing

September 24, 2013

This afternoon, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee will hold its confirmation hearing for Assistant Secretary of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor nominee Tom Malinowski. The…

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Blog

10 Key U.S. Allies with Antigay Laws Even Worse than Russia’s

September 24, 2013

By Sharon Kelly McBride This is a cross-post from The Huffington Post. When President Vladimir Putin signed the anti-gay “propaganda” bill on June 30th, he was…

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Blog

A Celebration of U.S. Diversity, Instead of Qur’an Burning

September 16, 2013

Last week, when Terry Jones decided to use his First Amendment right to freedom of speech, to insult Muslims by burning the Qur’an, he was…

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Blog

Dr. King’s Legacy Inspires Defenders Beyond U.S. Borders

August 28, 2013

Fifty years ago today Dr. Martin Luther King delivered his historic “I Have a Dream” speech. His remarks from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial…

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Blog

Pussy Riot Day of Solidarity

August 16, 2013

By Innokenty Grekov Fighting Discrimination Program One year ago three members of Pussy Riot were convicted of “hooliganism motivated by religious hatred” for staging a…

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Blog

Asylum and the Border: Setting the Record Straight

August 14, 2013

Over the last few days, several news outlets have produced pieces relating to protection requests at the border that reflect —and sow—confusion about the complex…

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Press

IOC Urged to Clarify Comment on Russia’s Antigay Law

August 13, 2013

New York City – Human Rights First urges the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to clarify recent statements made suggesting that it will punish athletes who stand…

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Press

United States Urged to Respect the Principle of Asylum as it Navigates Snowden Case

August 1, 2013

New York City – As accused NSA-leaker Edward Snowden reportedly leaves the Moscow airport under an agreement with Russian authorities, Human Rights First cautions that how…

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Press

House Oversight of Asylum Requests at Border Should Focus on Protection of Vulnerable Groups

July 17, 2013

Washington, D.C. –Human Rights First urges members of Congress at today’s House Oversight Committee Subcommittee on National Security hearing on “Border Security Oversight, Part III: Examining…

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Press

What Deputy Secretary Burns Should Tell the New Egyptian Government

July 15, 2013

Washington, D.C. – While he is in Egypt this week, Deputy Secretary of State William Burns rightly began to outline to the new Egyptian government and…

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Press

Six Steps for the U.S. to Support Egypt’s Successful Transition to Democracy

July 9, 2013

Washington, D.C. – As Egypt’s interim leaders announce their plan to elect a new president and parliament within the next six months, Human Rights First has…

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Press

Testimony Calls on Lawmakers to Press Russia on Human Rights

June 13, 2013

Washington, D.C. – In a statement submitted today to both the Senate Subcommittee on International Operations and Organizations, Human Rights, Democracy, and Global Women’s Issues and the Subcommittee on…

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Press

Baer Nomination as Ambassador to OSCE Praised

June 11, 2013

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

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