We found 491 results for "Syrian Refugees"
Topics
SYRIAN REFUGEES
September 19, 2022
The United States should lead a global effort to protect Syrian refugee families fleeing conflict and terrorism. The world is facing the largest refugee crisis…
Testimony
Meeting International Obligations to Welcome and Protect Refugees
June 24, 2022
Testimony of Kennji Kizuka Associate Director of Research and Analysis for Refugee Protection, Human Rights First Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, U.S. Congress “South Korea’s…
Blog
Lviv Offers Fast Track to Safety
March 19, 2022
Lviv’s magnificent old railway station in Ukraine is one of those Art Nouveau classics of eastern Europe. It survived a couple of world wars, Nazi…
Fact Sheet
Ten Reasons to End the Title 42 Policy
March 11, 2022
March 20, 2022 will mark two years since the Trump administration began to use the Title 42 policy to block and expel to danger people…
Blog
Black immigrants face unique challenges
February 17, 2022
By Reema Ghabra Black Immigrant and Refugee Equity (BIRE) Project Fellow Over the past twenty years, the Black immigrant population in the United States has…
Fact Sheet
Belarus-Poland Border: U.S. Should Stand for Human Rights and Human Lives
November 10, 2021
Over the last week, human rights challenges at the Belarus-Poland border have escalated, as Belarus pushes migrants and refugees toward the border and Poland sends…
Press
Human Rights First Heralds Legislation to Restore American Leadership to Refugee Protection
November 21, 2019
Legislation will overhaul the American refugee system to reassert humane U.S. leadership on refugee protection and resettlement WASHINGTON – Today, Human Rights First lauds Senator…
Press
Recipients of 2019 Marvin E. Frankel Award for Pro Bono Service Announced
August 13, 2019
New York City—Human Rights First today announced that it will present its annual Marvin E. Frankel Award to the law firms of Akin Gump Strauss…
VFAI Leader Spotlights
Leader Spotlight: Shakir Radeef
March 26, 2019
Tell us about your background. Before moving from Baghdad to the United States in 2014, I spent much of my career working as a journalist in…
Blueprint
How to Address the Global Refugee Crisis and Safeguard U.S. National Security
September 10, 2018
Historically, the United States has been a global leader in protecting vulnerable refugees fleeing persecution. Both Republican and Democratic administrations have recognized the moral and…
Blog
Proposed Refugee Cap Threatens U.S. National Security
August 7, 2018
By Kevin Schuster A new report suggest the Trump Administration plans to decrease the number of admitted refugees to 25,000 or lower for fiscal year 2019—a historic…
VFAI Leader Spotlights
Leader Spotlight: Gretchen Klingler
July 23, 2018
Our Leader Spotlights offer a glimpse into our diverse leadership: veterans who are continuing to serve their country and community in creative ways. Today, we…
VFAI Leader Spotlights
Leader Spotlight: Matthew Deibel
July 9, 2018
9/11 changed everything. Matthew Deibel remembers shortly after the towers fell, a store owned by one of his Muslim neighbors in Ohio was vandalized. “I…
Press
Administration Falling Behind Historically-Low Refugee Resettlement Goals
March 30, 2018
New York City—As the United States approaches the end of the first half of its 2018 fiscal year, Human Rights First said that the Trump…
Blog
Will Trump DHS Nominee Adhere to International Law?
November 8, 2017
This content originally appeared in the Huffington Post On Wednesday, the Senate Homeland Security Committee will have the opportunity to question Kirstjen Nielson, President Trump’s…
Press
United States to Admit All-Time Low Number of Refugees in 2018
September 27, 2017
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today condemned the Trump Administration for setting the refugee admissions goal at an all-time low number for fiscal year 2018. After…
Press
Administration to Set Refugee Admissions Cap at All-Time Low
September 13, 2017
Washington, D.C.—Following reports that the administration is considering dropping the number of admitted refugees to an all-time low for fiscal year 2018, Human Rights First…
Blog
Aligning American Foreign Policy to Protect Religious Freedom
August 21, 2017
On Tuesday Secretary of State Rex Tillerson delivered a speech to mark the release of the State Department’s annual International Religious Freedom Report. Human Rights First’s Rob Berschinski spoke…
Press
New Analysis Details Six-Month Impact of Trump Refugee Bans
July 27, 2017
Washington, D.C.—As the Trump Administration’s refugee ban executive order hits the six-month mark, Human Rights First today released a new analysis detailing the impacts of this policy…
Report
U.S. Leadership Forsaken: Six Months of the Trump Refugee Bans
July 27, 2017
The United States has long been a global leader in protecting and resettling persecuted refugees, and over the years has encouraged other countries to launch…
Press
Audio Recording Reveals Border Agents Turning Back Asylum Seekers
July 13, 2017
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today released an audio recording of a Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) agent repeatedly turning away asylum seekers at the U.S.-Mexico border, a…
Blog
Questions Surround Trump Administration’s Syria Policy
July 12, 2017
Six years into the Syrian conflict, more than five million Syrians are refugees. More than six million people are displaced within Syria, and over thirteen…
Blog
Three Things to Watch for during Trump’s Trip to Poland
June 29, 2017
By Jacob Kostrzewski President Trump will make a stop in Poland’s capital Warsaw on July 5th prior to attending the G-20 Summit in Germany. His visit comes a year…
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…
Blog
World Refugee Day Community Iftar
June 28, 2017
By Saadia H. Khan and Emma Bernstein Saadia: As a practicing Muslim born and raised in the United States, I fast during the holy month of…
Blog
Robbie Karp: Making the Refugee Crisis Human
June 21, 2017
By Rosalind Faulkner An Iranian boy who walked 2000 miles alone to reach safety in Greece. A pregnant Syrian woman who boarded an escape raft…
Press
New Analysis Reveals Trump Administration Slashing Resettlement of Muslim Refugees
June 13, 2017
Washington, D.C.—As the Supreme Court reviews President Trump’s request for stays of the preliminary injunctions against the travel and refugee bans in his revised executive…
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…
Press
Haley Urged to Seek a Comprehensive Solution to Syrian Refugee Crisis During Upcoming Trip to Jordan and Turkey
May 19, 2017
New York City—As U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley prepares to travel to Jordan and Turkey, Human Rights First today called on Ambassador Haley to prioritize not only U.S. humanitarian…
Press
House Judiciary Committee Urged to Reject Bill Targeting Refugees and Asylum Seekers During Today’s Hearing
May 18, 2017
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights first today, along with 25 leading human rights, refugee resettlement, and faith organizations, called on the House Judiciary Committee to reject…
Press
Erdogan Visit Continues Disturbing Trend of Engaging with Authoritarians
May 15, 2017
New York City-–Human Rights First today urged President Trump to raise Turkey’s abysmal human rights record and erosion of democratic institutions when he meets with Turkish…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: May 15, 2017
May 15, 2017
By Mary Elizabeth Margolis Top Items Turkish President to Visit the White House President Trump is scheduled to welcome Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to the White House…
Blog
A Sign of Desperation: Syrian Refugees are Selling Their Organs
May 8, 2017
The BBC reports that organ trafficking is a flourishing business in Lebanon as desperate Syrian refugees sell parts of their bodies to try to survive. One Syrian…
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…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: April 10, 2017
April 10, 2017
By Mary Elizabeth Margolis Top Items United States Responds with Force to Crisis in Syria Following U.S. missile strikes against a Syrian airfield on Thursday evening,…
Press
U.S. Action to Uphold Chemical Weapon Prohibition Must Be Founded in Broader Strategy to End Conflict in Syria
April 7, 2017
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First condemned the Syrian government’s use of chemical gas that killed over 70 civilians this week and urges the U.S. government to work with…
Press
Revised Executive Order on Refugees Continues to Betray Ideals, Put America at Risk
March 6, 2017
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today condemned President Trump’s executive order signed today suspending the refugee resettlement program, and banning the issuance of new visas and…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: March 6, 2017
March 6, 2017
TOP ITEMS Revised Refugee Ban President Trump today signed a new executive order suspending the refugee resettlement program, and banning the issuance of new visas…
Blog
Trump’s “Pause” on Refugees Would Put a Wrench in the Entire System Indefinitely
March 3, 2017
This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post President Trump’s executive order suspending refugee resettlement is not dead in the courts—the administration is preparing…
Blog
Rumored Revisions to Executive Order Not Enough to Protect Iraqi Allies
March 2, 2017
The White House is expected to soon release its revised executive order on refugees and immigrants. The administration’s first order, signed January 27, placed a…
Fact Sheet
LGBT Refugees and President Trump’s Refugee and Muslim Ban Executive Order
February 22, 2017
LGBT REFUGEES AND PRESIDENT TRUMP’S REFUGEE AND MUSLIM BAN EXECUTIVE ORDER President Trump’s Executive Order President Trump’s January 27th executive order sought to: Halt the refugee…
Press
LGBT Refugees, Experts Explore Impact of President Trump’s Travel Ban
February 22, 2017
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today will co-host a congressional briefing examining the administration’s recent executive order targeting refugees and its impact on lesbian, gay, bisexual,…
Blog
President Trump to Issue Revised Executive Order—Will It Be Better or Worse?
February 17, 2017
By Eleanor Acer Yesterday President Donald Trump announced that he will issue a new executive order next week “which will comprehensively protect our country” and be “tailored” to…
Press
In Testimony, Human Rights First Urges Congress to Protect Refugees from Becoming Trafficking Victims
February 15, 2017
Washington, D.C. – In testimony today before the Senate, Human Rights First’s President and CEO Elisa Massimino urged Congress to combat human trafficking by blocking any executive action…
Blog
How Not to Honor Holocaust Remembrance Day
February 13, 2017
By Dora Illei On International Holocaust Remembrance Day, it is customary for the U.S. government to honor its victims, who were primarily Jewish. In last year’s…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: February 13, 2017
February 13, 2017
By Mary Elizabeth Margolis Top Items Ruling Upholds Stay on Muslim Ban On Thursday the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a ruling that upheld the…
Blog
Under Trump’s “Extreme Vetting,” Should Dictators Vet the Refugees they Create?
February 10, 2017
This blog is cross posted with The Huffington Post Sorry Omran Daqneesh, that photo of you bloodied in the back of an ambulance was unfortunate, but reliable…
Press
Ninth Circuit Ruling on Trump Executive Order a Victory for the Rule of Law
February 9, 2017
New York City—Human Rights First said that today’s Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that refused to reinstate President Trump’s executive order is a victory…
Fact Sheet
Myth v. Fact: Trump’s Refugee and Immigration Executive Order
February 7, 2017
On January 27, 2017, President Trump issued an executive order that: 1) Bars Syrian refugees from coming to the United States indefinitely; 2) Bars nationals from…
Press
Secretary Kelly Urged to Uphold U.S. Obligations to Protect Refugees
February 7, 2017
New York City—Following testimony today by Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary John Kelly before the House Homeland Security Committee, Human Rights First urged DHS to…
Press
Department of Homeland Security to Continue Processing Asylum Applications
February 6, 2017
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today welcomed reports that the Department of Homeland Security will continue adjudicating asylum and other applications for individuals in the United…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: February 6, 2017
February 6, 2017
By Mary Elizabeth Margolis TOP ITEMS Muslim Ban Temporarily Halted A decision Sunday by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit preserved a lower…
Blog
Questions for Secretary Kelly
February 6, 2017
By Eleanor Acer Tomorrow morning the new Secretary for Homeland Security, General John F. Kelly, will testify before the House Homeland Security Committee. The hearing, “Ending the…
Fact Sheet
Former U.S. National Security and Military Leaders Oppose Refugee and Immigration Ban
February 2, 2017
On January 27, 2017, President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled, “Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry Into the United States.” The order…
Blog
Eight Ways Trump’s Executive Order on Immigration Makes Us Less Safe
February 2, 2017
This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post In issuing his executive order immediately banning refugees and hundreds of thousands of Muslim travelers from the United…
Blog
The Syria “Safe Zones” Mystery
February 2, 2017
By Neil Hicks This article is a cross-post from The Huffington Post. In his telephone discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Arabian King…
Blog
Islam is Peace: Let’s Remember George W. Bush’s Words After 9/11
February 2, 2017
In the first week of its new administration, the Trump White House signed an executive order barring Syrian refugees indefinitely, slashing refugee resettlement, and effectively targeting immigrants…
Refugees Strengthen America: Q & A
February 1, 2017
Q. Should we be worried a terrorist can get into the United States through the resettlement program by pretending to be a refugee? A. Refugees must…
Blog
The Trump Administration Turns its Back on the World’s Refugees
February 1, 2017
This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post. President Trump and his senior advisors have sought to downplay the significance of the sweeping restrictions on refugees…
Fact Sheet
Refugee Resettlement – Security Screening Information
February 1, 2017
Refugee Resettlement Screening Process The United States screens and vets refugees more stringently than any other group allowed to enter the country. STAGE ONE: The U.N.…
VFAI Leader Spotlights
Leader Spotlight: Kelsey Campbell
January 31, 2017
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…
Press
Suspension of Asylum Grants Would Put Vulnerable Individuals at Risk
January 31, 2017
New York City—Human Rights First today expressed grave concerns about reports that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has suspended decision-making in asylum and other…
Press
DHS Reportedly to Allow Iraqis with SIV Visas into United States Despite Ban
January 31, 2017
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today praised reports that the Department of Homeland Security will provide exemptions to President Trump’s executive order for Iraqis who are eligible…
Fact Sheet
Trump’s Refugee and Immigration Executive Order
January 31, 2017
The order discriminates against Muslims, imperils refugees, and degrades U.S. national security and global leadership. The executive order of January 27, 2017, titled “Protecting the…
Press
Veterans Urge Trump to Rethink Executive Orders Barring Refugees, Immigrants
January 29, 2017
Washington, D.C.—In a letter sent today Veterans for American Ideals, a group of more than 2,000 veterans of the U.S. armed forces, urged President Donald Trump to reconsider…
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,…
Blog
Resettling Refugees is the Right Choice, Morally and Strategically
January 26, 2017
Accepting refugees—some of the most at-risk people on earth—makes America stronger, despite claims from President Trump and others that refugees pose a danger to the…
Press
Executive Orders Halting Refugee Resettlement Dangerous to National Security
January 25, 2017
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urged the Trump Administration to refrain from issuing executive orders that would suspend the U.S. refugee resettlement program and end U.S.…
Letter
National Security Leaders Oppose Halting Refugee Resettlement
January 25, 2017
(Published December 1, 2015) Dear Senator/Representative, We write to express our opposition to proposals that would effectively halt the resettlement of Syrian and Iraqi refugees…
Blog
President Obama’s Record and Legacy on Human Rights: On the Radio with WBEZ Chicago
January 23, 2017
Last Thursday on WBEZ Chicago’s Worldview, Human Rights First President and CEO Elisa Massimino joined the program to discuss President Obama’s legacy on human rights. Broaching topics such…
Blog
Haley Concerned about Refugees, but Lacks Information on Vetting
January 20, 2017
Governor Nikki Haley, President Trump’s nominee for U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, expressed concern for refugees during her Senate confirmation hearing this Wednesday, noting…
Fact Sheet
Refugees and National Security
January 20, 2017
Resettling and assisting refugees benefits U.S. national security. Refugees are already very rigorously vetted. Accepting Refugees Helps the United States and Enhances National Security. National…
Blog
Reflecting on the Year: Veterans for American Ideals
December 28, 2016
When I retired from the Marine Corps, like all of my friends who served, I reflected on my experience and wondered if I could find…
Blog
Veterans Talk Refugees and American ideals on Full Frontal with Samantha Bee
December 20, 2016
By Joe Jenkins This week’s episode of TBS’ Full Frontal with Samantha Bee takes a look at the divisive language around the Syrian refugee crisis—and the group pundits…
Blog
New Report Shows Syrians Thriving in America
December 19, 2016
By Joe Jenkins 2016 has been a particularly trying time for Syrians. The city of Aleppo has fallen to the Assad regime after a particularly brutal four-year…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: December 19, 2016
December 19, 2016
Statement of Principles As 2016 draws to a close and the next administration readies to take office, Human Rights First and a coalition of 20…
Blog
Barring Refugees Would Hurt National Security
December 5, 2016
This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post: Just days before the nation celebrated Thanksgiving, an AP photographer snapped a picture of Kris Kobach’s proposed…
Blog
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…
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…
Blog
Top 3 Myths About the U.S. Refugee Resettlement System Dispelled
November 15, 2016
By Joe Jenkins Today we are living through one of the greatest humanitarian crises of our time. Over 65 million people are displaced around the world due…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: October 31, 2016
October 31, 2016
Top Items Immigration Detention Human Rights First and 229 partner organizations today called on Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Jeh Johnson to take immediate…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: October 31, 2016
October 31, 2016
Top Items Immigration Detention Human Rights First and 229 partner organizations today called on Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Jeh Johnson to take immediate steps…
Blog
Refugee Advocates Find Growing Support for Private Sponsorship
October 27, 2016
By Joe Jenkins Today’s refugee crisis is the worst the world has seen in generations. But it’s not only a devastating manifestation of the conflict…
Blog
Refugee Advocates Find Growing Support for Private Sponsorship
October 27, 2016
By Joe Jenkins Today’s refugee crisis is the worst the world has seen in generations. But it’s not only a devastating manifestation of the conflict and…
Blog
“Finding Refuge” by 60 Minutes Puts the Refugee Crisis in Focus
October 20, 2016
By Joe Jenkins The civil war in Syria has raged on for over five years, but many Americans only began to learn about the ensuing…
Letter
Letter to President Obama on Last 100 Days in Office
October 13, 2016
October 13, 2016 The Honorable Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. President: Right now, in…
Press
Human Rights First Urges President Obama to Take Action to Secure Human Rights Legacy
October 13, 2016
Washington, D.C. – As President Obama enters the last 100 days of his term in office, Human Rights First today urged him to take specific actions…
Blog
Top Texas Officials Drop Lawsuit Over Syrian Refugees
October 13, 2016
By Joe Jenkins Late last week, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton withdrew his lawsuit against the U.S. government in a move that may signal the end of…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: October 11, 2016
October 11, 2016
Top Items United Nations Last week the U.N. Security Council voted to elect former prime minister of Portugal António Guterres as the next Secretary-General of the United…
Press
U.N. Security Council Elects Former High Commissioner on Refugees as Secretary-General
October 6, 2016
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today welcomed the U.N. Security Council vote to elect former prime minister of Portugal António Guterres as the next Secretary-General of…
Blog
No More “Nightmare Speculation:” Federal Court Strikes Down Indiana Anti-Syrian Refugee Policy
October 6, 2016
By Joe Jenkins On Monday, judges of the 7th Circuit Court dealt a major blow to states trying to buck the federal refugee resettlement program when it…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: October 3, 2016
October 3, 2016
Top Items Refugee Resettlement The Obama Administration has reached its refugee resettlement goal for Fiscal Year (FY) 2016, which ended on Friday. Early reports indicate that…
Blog
The Syrian Refugee Crisis: A Greenhouse for Human Trafficking
October 3, 2016
By Rachel Buchan Jordan has the third largest population of Syrian refugees in the world, with 635,000 registered Syrian refugees in the country. Additional unregistered refugees push…
Press
At Fiscal Year End, Obama Administration Meets Refugee Resettlement Goals
September 30, 2016
New York City – As today marks the end of Fiscal Year (FY) 2016, Human Rights First applauds the Obama Administration for reaching its goal of…
Press
Refugee Veteran Urges Congress to Fund Administration’s Refugee Resettlement Goals
September 28, 2016
Washington, D.C.—In a statement for the record submitted today to the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration and the National Interest, Bosnian refugee and 20-year U.S. Marine Corps…
Testimony
Statement for the Record of Emir Hadzic: The Need to Protect Refugees
September 28, 2016
Statement for the Record of Emir Hadzic, Gunnery Sergeant, USMC (Ret.) Senate Committee on the Judiciary, Subcommittee on Immigration and the National Interest “Oversight of…
Press
Texas Decision to Pull Out of Refugee Resettlement Program Ignores Stringent Vetting Requirements
September 21, 2016
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today condemned the decision by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to withdraw the state from the refugee resettlement program, erroneously claiming the program is a…
Press
Obama Summit a Welcome Step in the Right Direction, but Gaps and Serious Rights Violations Remain
September 21, 2016
New York City—Human Rights First today applauded President Obama for hosting yesterday’s Leaders’ Summit on Refugees, which brought together members of the international community to…
Press
Human Rights First’s Acer Addresses U.N. High Level Meeting on Refugees
September 19, 2016
New York City—In remarks today before the U.N. High Level Meeting on Refugees and Migrants, Human Rights First’s Eleanor Acer urged countries to uphold commitments to refugee…
Blog
Retired General Charles Krulak and Pastor Bob Roberts: Islamophobia Diminishes Us
September 14, 2016
By Joe Jenkins In early September the White House met its goal of resettling 10,000 Syrian refugees. President Obama stated that the United States welcomed…
Press
Congress Should Fund White House’s Increased Refugee Resettlement Goal
September 14, 2016
New York City—Human Rights First today welcomes the Obama Administration’s decision to increase the number of refugees resettled in the United States to at least…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: September 12, 2016
September 12, 2016
Top Items Global Refugee Crisis This Thursday the White House will host an event to celebrate the contributions of refugees resettled in the United States. The…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: September 6, 2016
September 6, 2016
Top Items Congress This month in New York City world leaders will attend two major summits designed to address the ongoing global refugee crisis, the…
Blog
Human Rights First and Veterans for American Ideals Speak at Rally4Refugees
August 31, 2016
By Kristina Doan and Joe Jenkins Ahead of news that the White House met its goal of resettling 10,000 Syrian refugees by September, supporters of refugee…
Press
Comprehensive Plan Details How U.S. Should Lead on Global Refugee Crisis
August 31, 2016
Washington, D.C. — Human Rights First today released “Respecting Rights and Securing Solutions,” a comprehensive plan for how the United States should address the global refugee…
Report
Respecting Rights and Securing Solutions
August 31, 2016
Two major summits slated for September 2016 present opportunities for the United States to lead, and advance key components of, a comprehensive initiative to…
Press
U.S. Reaches 10,000 Syrian Refugee Resettlement Goal
August 29, 2016
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today praised the Obama Administration for reaching its goal of admitting “at least 10,000” Syrian refugees in fiscal year 2016.…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: August 29, 2016
August 29, 2016
Top Items G20 in China As President Obama prepares to travel to China at the end of this week for his final G20 summit, Human Rights First urges him…
Blog
Two Months Later: Brexit Unleashes Hate Crimes
August 23, 2016
By Zahava Moerdler Immediately following the U.K.’s vote to exit the European Union, there was a significant uptick in hate crimes in the U.K. and…
Blog
The Truth about Refugee Vetting, from the Experts
August 22, 2016
By Joe Jenkins Though the White House is close to meeting its goal of resettling 10,000 Syrian refugees in 2016, there has been ongoing resistance from some…
Blog
Biden in Turkey: Holding the Line on Human Rights
August 22, 2016
This week, Vice President Joe Biden will travel to Turkey to meet with President Erdogan and Prime Minister Yildirim. This is one of the last…
Blog
The Syrian Refugee Crisis: A Greenhouse for Human Trafficking
August 16, 2016
By Rachel Buchan Around the world today, an estimated twenty-one million people have fallen prey to the criminal enterprise of human trafficking. Though victim demographics…
Blog
Vote for Human Rights First’s SXSW PanelPicker Ideas
August 16, 2016
Last March we set out for Austin, Texas to talk about using corporate data to fight modern slavery at SXSW (South by Southwest). Now we’re…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: August 15, 2016
August 15, 2016
Top Items Family Detention Last week a group of nearly two dozen mothers detained at the Berks County Detention Facility in Pennsylvania—many for over one year—announced…
Blog
The Obama Administration’s “Problem from Hell” in Syria
August 15, 2016
This blog is cross-posted from The Huffington Post. Samantha Power, the United States Ambassador to the United Nations and longtime foreign policy advisor to President Obama,…
Press
Obama Administration Resettles 2,340 Syrian Refugees in July, Marking Progress Toward 2016 Goal
August 3, 2016
New York City—The State Department today released official resettlement data for July, indicating that 2,340 Syrian refugees arrived last month, bringing the fiscal year total to 7,551…
Blog
Navy Veteran Doyle Hodges to Governor Christie: Policy on Syrian Refugees Helps ISIS
August 2, 2016
By Joe Jenkins In May 2016, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie announced that the state would no longer participate in the Office of Health and…
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…
Blog
Six Ways Human Rights are at Risk in Turkey after the Coup Attempt
July 25, 2016
This blog is cross posted from the Huffington Post On July 16, a faction of the Turkish military initiated an attempted coup. It disagreed with…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: July 25, 2016
July 25, 2016
Top News Immigration Detention Human Rights First today released a new report detailing the increase in asylum seekers held in U.S. immigration detention facilities and…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: July 18, 2016
July 18, 2016
TOP NEWS Guantanamo Bay There are 59 motions on the docket for consideration during the next two weeks as the military commission proceedings for the…
Blog
Military Chiefs and National Security Experts Agree: America Must Lead in the Refugee Crisis
July 12, 2016
By Joe Jenkins In a recent Miami Herald op-ed, two of the country’s most experienced and respected national security leaders made the case for American…
Press
House Should Reject Foreign Operations Appropriations Bill that Diminishes Refugee Protection
July 12, 2016
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today urges members of the House of Representatives to reject the State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs Appropriations Bill for Fiscal…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: July 11, 2016
July 11, 2016
TOP ITEMS Global Refugee Crisis This week, the House Committee on Appropriations will markup the Fiscal Year 2017 State and Foreign Operations Bill. In its…
Press
President Obama Should Champion Refugee Protection at NATO Summit
July 7, 2016
Washington, D.C.—As world leaders gather for the NATO summit in Poland to discuss how to best address the migration of refugees across the Central Mediterranean,…
Blog
A Milestone in the Immigration Court Backlog Points to Progress
July 6, 2016
There are more immigration judges on the bench today than ever before—an important step forward in the fight against the ballooning backlog, demonstrating that the…
Blog
NYC Council Members Demand Protection for Refugees
July 1, 2016
By Elise Adams On Wednesday morning New York City council members joined together at City Hall and called for federal action to support Syrian refugees…
Blog
Increasing the Pace of Refugee Resettlement Does Not Cut Corners on Security
July 1, 2016
As the Washington Times recently reported, the United States reached the 5,000 arrivals mark for Syrian refugees resettled to the United States in fiscal year…
Blog
Today’s Refugees Would Fill 1,166 LA Dodgers Stadiums
June 29, 2016
By Haley Agront In 2015 65.3 million people were displaced in what United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon has called “the biggest refugee and displacement crisis…
Blog
Texas Court Rules that State Cannot Block Federal Refugee Resettlement
June 27, 2016
By Manya-Jean Gitter In the last two weeks, Texas has the joined the ranks of states enacting pro-refugee policies. On June 16, 2016, the United…
Blog
Syrian Refugee Walks as Grand Marshal in NYC Pride Parade
June 27, 2016
By Elise Adams Subhi Nahas, a 28-year-old gay refugee from Syria, served as a grand marshal at the New York City Pride Parade on Sunday.…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: June 20, 2016
June 21, 2016
Top News World Refugee Day Today, to mark World Refugee Day, 28 of the nation’s most prominent national security leaders, retired generals and admirals, and former government…
Blog
What Does It Mean to be a Refugee?
June 20, 2016
By Elise Adams TED Ed recently published an informational video explaining what it means to be a refugee in today’s world. The United Nations 1951 convention officially defined…
Blog
Iowa and South Carolina Pass Legislation to Benefit Refugees
June 13, 2016
By Manya-Jean Gitter This week several state legislators decided to take action in support of refugees. Despite negative campaign rhetoric and misinformation, national security leaders have…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: June 13, 2016
June 13, 2016
Top News Ukraine Pride After the deadliest mass shooting attack in U.S. history targeted LGBT men and women at Orlando’s Pulse nightclub, claiming 50 lives and…
Press
Obama Administration Resettles 2,406 Syrian Refugees in June, Halfway to Yearly Goal
June 12, 2016
New York City— The State Department today released official resettlement data for June, indicating that 2,406 Syrian refugees arrived last month, and bringing the fiscal…
Blog
Iowa and South Carolina Pass Legislation to Benefit Refugees
June 10, 2016
By Manya-Jean Gitter This week several state legislators decided to take action in support of refugees. Despite negative campaign rhetoric and misinformation, national security leaders have…
Blog
Let Me Tell You About The Refugees I Assist
June 10, 2016
By Adelma Jakupovic Since August of 2015, I have volunteered at the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) in Washington, D.C. As part of my work…
Press
Obama Administration Resettles 1,069 Syrian Refugees in May, Remains far from Goal
June 6, 2016
New York City—The State Department today released its official resettlement numbers for May, indicating that eight months into the fiscal year it has resettled a…
Blog
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…
Blog
Olympic Refugee Team will Feature Ten Athletes from Syria, DRC, Ethiopia, and South Sudan
June 3, 2016
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) today announced who will compete as part of a historic first-ever Olympic refugee team. The announcement, which came this morning, revealed the names of…
Blog
Guantanamo Diary Author Receives Periodic Review Board Hearing
June 2, 2016
Today, nearly 17 months after the release of his best-selling memoir Guantanamo Diary, Mohamedou Ould Slahi received his Periodic Review Board (PRB) hearing. Slahi is a 45-year-old Guantanamo…
Blog
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…
Blog
State Department Should Drastically Increase Resettlement in FY 2017
May 27, 2016
In response to the Department of State’s Request for Public Comment on its Fiscal Year 2017 refugee resettlement program, Human Rights First has urged the government to resettle 100,000…
Blog
Survey Finds Most People Want to Welcome Refugees
May 20, 2016
Amnesty International released a poll today documenting people’s attitudes in 27 different countries towards welcoming refugees. Encouragingly, the vast majority want their countries to accept refugees. In…
Blog
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…
Press
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…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: May 16, 2016
May 16, 2016
TOP NEWS Guantanamo This week as the military commission proceedings in the case against Abdul Hadi al Iraqi continue at the U.S. detention center at…
Blog
Maryland Legislators Stand Up for Refugees
May 12, 2016
Syrian refugees have become the scapegoats for much of Americans’ anxieties about terrorism, despite the fact that they are rigorously vetted. In fact, experts—including former national security advisors, CIA…
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…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: May 9, 2016
May 9, 2016
Top News Global Refugee Crisis Last week, the State Department released its official resettlement numbers for April, indicating that it resettled 451 Syrian refugees last…
Blog
What Voters Don’t Know about Refugees
May 6, 2016
The Guardian reported on a recent Pew poll that found 85 percent of Donald Trump supporters believe that refugees from Iraq and Syria are a major threat to…
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…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: May 2, 2016
May 2, 2016
Top News Guantanamo As the administration works toward its goal of closing the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, it has scheduled two more Periodic…
Blog
Utah Shows the Way on Welcoming Refugees
April 26, 2016
While New Jersey Governor Chris Christie recently took steps to pull New Jersey out of the U.S. resettlement program, many other Americans are welcoming refugees. Utah is…
Blog
Syrian Refugee Will Carry Olympic Flame through Athens
April 25, 2016
By Greg Felder The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) announced that Ibrahim Al-Hussein, a 27-year-old Syrian refugee, will carry the Rio 2016 Olympic Torch through the Eleonas…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: April 25, 2016
April 25, 2016
TOP NEWS Obama in Germany President Obama is in Berlin meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, British Prime Minister David Cameron, French President Francois Hollande…
Blog
Obama’s Opportunity in Germany
April 22, 2016
President Obama heads to Hanover, Germany this weekend and on Monday he will meet with the leaders of Germany, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom.…
Press
In Germany, Obama Urged to Promote Refugee Protection and Support Efforts to Address Antisemitism and Extremism
April 22, 2016
New York City – In light of his upcoming meetings in Germany, Human Rights First today called on President Obama to promote the protection of refugees and…
Blog
Governor Chris Christie Should Listen to National Security Leaders on Refugee Resettlement
April 22, 2016
This week New Jersey Governor Chris Christie announced that New Jersey state agencies will no longer participate in the federal government’s resettlement program. More than half of…
Blog
The Right to Run
April 20, 2016
Last week one of Human Rights First’s senior researchers was in Turkey, meeting with human rights defenders in Gaziantep, near the Syria border. Again and…
Blog
An Opportunity for President Obama at the GCC
April 20, 2016
As President Obama’s second term draws to an end he is going to making many “lasts.” His last ride in Airforce One, his last state dinner, and…
Issue Brief
High Stakes for Syria at GCC Meeting: How President Obama Should Urge Gulf Leaders to Help Syria
April 19, 2016
When President Obama meets the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council on April 21 in Saudi Arabia it will be his last chance to press…
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…
Blog
The Full Picture: Refugee screening is thorough and safe
April 18, 2016
By Gregory Felder Those who fear that accepting Syrian refugees will make America less safe don’t have the full picture on the refugee resettlement process. In…
Blog
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…
Report
At Least 10,000: A six-month progress report on U.S. resettlement of Syrian refugees
April 5, 2016
In September 2015, Secretary of State John F. Kerry announced that the United States would resettle “at least 10,000” Syrian refugees during the 2016 fiscal…
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…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: April 4, 2016
April 4, 2016
Top News Guantanamo Today two detainees from the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, were transferred to Senegal. The transfers come as the Pentagon continues to advocate for the administration’s plan to close…
Press
U.S. Pledge at UNHCR Meeting in Geneva Falls Short of Leadership Needed to Address Syrian Refugee Crisis
March 30, 2016
New York City – Human Rights First today said that the Obama Administration today missed a key opportunity to demonstrate meaningful leadership in addressing the global…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: March 28, 2016
March 28, 2016
Top News Global Refugee Crisis In a move that would severely hinder the ability of the United States to provide protection for those fleeing violence in…
Blog
A Death in Limbo: How one refugee family’s loss demonstrates the toll of resettlement backlogs
March 28, 2016
By Eleanor Acer This blog is cross-posted from the Huffington Post: Sometimes it only takes the suffering of one to drive home the pain of thousands. Last week I…
Press
Congress Urged to Reject Proposals to Deny Funding for Refugee Resettlement
March 25, 2016
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today called on Congress to reject any proposals that would remove funding for the resettlement of vulnerable Syrian and Iraqi…
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…
Testimony
Testimony of Eleanor Acer: Oversight and Government Reform Committee Joint Subcommittee Hearing
March 23, 2016
This hearing is focused on “National Security: Threats at Our Borders” including steps that the U.S. government can take to mitigate the potential of terrorists…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: March 21, 2016
March 21, 2016
Top News Torture Last week National Security Advisor Susan Rice announced that the president will begin the declassification of records from Argentina’s “Dirty War” as…
Press
European Agreement to Return Refugees to Turkey Threatens the Rights of Refugees
March 18, 2016
New York City – Human Rights First today warned that the European Union’s new agreement to return refugees to Turkey threatens the rights of vulnerable refugees…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: March 14, 2016
March 14, 2016
Top News Targeted Killing Last week, the Obama Administration announced that it will publish civilian and combatant casualty assessments for lethal counterterrorism strikes outside areas of…
Fact Sheet
National Security Voices on Refugee Resettlement
March 14, 2016
IN RESPONSE to misguided anti-refugee proposals, an array of prominent and well-respected former government officials and national security advisors have raised their voices to emphasize the…
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…
Blog
Syrian Refugee Resettlement by the Numbers
March 9, 2016
The United States has often been a global leader in resettlement, challenging other countries to meet their international obligations, contributing to global stability, and advancing…
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…
Blog
All-Refugee Team to Compete at the 2016 Summer Olympics
March 7, 2016
By Gregory Felder The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced that it will sponsor an all-refugee team to compete at the Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. As…
Press
United States Resettles Only 114 Syrian Refugees in February
March 3, 2016
New York City—Human Rights First said that today’s announcement that the United States resettled only 114 Syrian refugees last month falls far short of the…
Press
New Report Finds Worsening Conditions for Syrian Refugees, Threats to Regional Stability, Due to Lack of Support
February 29, 2016
New York City – Human Rights First today released a new report, “The Syrian Refugee Crisis and the Need for U.S. Leadership,” that details the deteriorating conditions facing…
Report
The Syrian Refugee Crisis and the Need for U.S. Leadership
February 29, 2016
Foreword by Ambassador Ryan C. Crocker The Syrian refugee crisis is at a pivotal moment. More than 11 million people are displaced within Syria, a…
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…
Press
During Meeting with King Abdullah of Jordan, President Obama Should Pledge Increased Support for Front-line Syrian Refugee Hosting States
February 23, 2016
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today called on President Obama to announce a major U.S. initiative to help address the Syrian refugee crisis that includes…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: February 22, 2016
February 22, 2016
Top News Guantanamo Tomorrow is the statutory deadline for the Obama Administration to give Congress its plan for closing the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The…
Blog
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…
Blog
The Refugee Question: A THINK Conversation with Ryan Crocker
February 12, 2016
By Adelma Jakupovic Ryan Crocker, former U.S Ambassador to Syria, Iraq, and several other Middle Eastern countries, recently participated in a special broadcast of KERA FM’s Think program exploring…
Press
White House Budget Fails to Provide Adequate Funding to Protect Refugees and Asylum Seekers
February 9, 2016
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First said today that the White House’s failure to request funding to increase immigration court capacity and the small increase of the…
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…
Press
Administration Announces Increased Aid for Syrian Refugees, More Efforts Needed
February 4, 2016
New York City – Human Rights First today welcomed the announcement that the United States has committed an additional $925 million in humanitarian aid and support for Syrian…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: February 1, 2016
February 3, 2016
Top News Global Refugee Crisis Congress will address the ongoing global refugee crisis during a series of hearings this week. On Wednesday, the House Homeland Security…
Press
Obama Urged to Commit to Increasing Efforts to Address Refugee Crisis at Syria Donors Conference
February 1, 2016
New York City – Human Rights First today called on President Obama to use his participation in the Syria Donors Conference on Thursday in London to publicly commit…
Blog
U.S. Resettlement is No Cake Walk for Syrian Refugees
January 27, 2016
By Greg Felder The terror attacks in Paris and San Bernardino sparked a widespread debate on how the United States should handle refugees, particularly those…
Press
Denmark Immigration Law Violates the Human Rights of Vulnerable Refugees
January 27, 2016
New York City – Human Rights First today called on the Obama Administration to urge Denmark to abandon the newly-passed immigration law that allows for the seizure…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: January 25, 2016
January 26, 2016
Top News Egypt Today on the fifth anniversary of the mass Tahrir Square protests calling for democratic reform in Egypt, Human Rights First released a new blueprint…
Blog
They Hear Us: The Toxic U.S. Debate about Refugee Resettlement
January 25, 2016
By Eleanor Acer This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post: Over the last two weeks, I was in Jordan, Lebanon, and Turkey assessing the challenges…
Press
Biden Urged to Raise Concerns Over Refugee and Civil Society Protection While in Turkey
January 22, 2016
New York City – As Vice President Biden visits Turkey, Human Rights First today calls on him to praise Turkey for providing safety to more than 2.2…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: January 19, 2016
January 21, 2016
Top News Global Refugee Crisis Tomorrow the Senate will take up the American SAFE Act, legislation that would effectively halt the resettlement of vulnerable refugees…
Press
Human Rights First Praises Senate Defeat of American SAFE Act
January 20, 2016
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today praised the Senate for voting against a motion to proceed on the American Security Against Foreign Enemies Act (H.R.…
Press
American SAFE Act Undermines Security Interests and American Values
January 19, 2016
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today urged the Senate to reject the American Security Against Foreign Enemies Act (H.R. 4038), a bill that would…
Blog
Obama, Power Extol American Leadership and Values. Refugees Need Action.
January 15, 2016
This is a cross-post from The Huffington Post. In his final State of the Union address President Obama focused on the importance of American leadership, both…
Press
United States to Increase Admission of Central American Refugees
January 13, 2016
Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today praised Secretary of State John Kerry’s announcement that the United States will accept more refugees in an effort to admit…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: January 4, 2016
January 5, 2016
Top News Guantanamo A senior U.S. official who spoke on the condition of anonymity confirmed to CNN that 17 detainees cleared for release from the U.S. detention facility…
Press
Human Rights First Applauds Congress for Omitting Anti-Refugee Provisions from Omnibus Spending Bill
December 16, 2015
New York City – Human Rights First today praised the bipartisan effort to ensure that harmful provisions were not included in the omnibus spending package that…
Blog
What You Should Know about Syrian Refugee Resettlement before Tonight’s Debate
December 15, 2015
There’s a lot of misinformation swirling around the politisphere about Syrian refugees, and tonight’s primary debate is likely to be no exception. So when you…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: December 14, 2015
December 15, 2015
Top News Extremism in France During yesterday’s second round of French regional elections, voters rejected candidates from the far-right political party the National Front. The development…
Press
Americans Want Stronger U.S. Leadership on Key Human Rights Issues
December 9, 2015
According to a Human Rights First Study conducted by Harris Poll Washington, D.C.—Today, Human Rights First released a new study conducted by Harris Poll showing broad bipartisan…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: December 7, 2015
December 8, 2015
Top News Extremism in France France’s far-right National Front party, spearheaded by Marine Le Pen, reportedly made major gains in yesterday’s regional elections. News sources say…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: November 30, 2015
December 2, 2015
Top News Torture Last week, President Obama signed into law an updated defense authorization bill for fiscal year 2016 that included a landmark provision reinforcing the…
Fact Sheet
Fact Sheet: American Security Against Foreign Enemies Act
December 1, 2015
American Security Against Foreign Enemies Act Would Bring Resettlement of Iraqi and Syrian Refugees to a Standstill Bill Would Also Abandon Iraqis who worked with…
Press
National Security Leaders Call on Congress to Reject Proposals to Halt the Resettlement of Syrian and Iraqi Refugees in the United States
December 1, 2015
Washington, D.C. – A bipartisan group of twenty of the nation’s top national security experts, former government officials, and former military leaders today sent a letter to each…
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…
Letter
Letter: U.S. Resettlement of Syrian and Iraqi refugees
November 23, 2015
November 23, 2015 Re: U.S. Resettlement of Syrian and Iraqi refugees Dear Senator: We write to urge you to oppose proposals that would undermine the…
Press
Former INS Commissioners Urge Senate to Reject Bill that would Halt Resettlement of Syrian Refugees
November 23, 2015
Washington, D.C.—Former Commissioners of Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) Doris Meissner and James W. Ziglar today urged senators to uphold America’s commitment to protecting the…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: October 26, 2015
October 26, 2015
Top News Family Immigration Detention The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services has announced that it will not renew the license of the Berks County Residential Center,…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: October 19, 2015
October 19, 2015
Top News Antisemitism Tomorrow Senator Ben Cardin and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Special Representative on Anti-Semitism, Racism, and Intolerance will host a conversation on Combating Anti-Semitism…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: October 13, 2015
October 13, 2015
Top News Guantanamo President Obama will soon decide whether to make good on his promise to veto the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year…
Press
Senate Should Pass Bipartisan Bill to Provide Funding to Better Address Syrian Refugee Crisis
October 7, 2015
New York City – Human Right First today welcomed the introduction of an emergency supplemental appropriations bill in the Senate that would provide funding to support…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: October 5, 2015
October 5, 2015
Top News Guantanamo This week, the Senate will take up the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2016, legislation that contains provisions that would…
Press
Judiciary Committee Should Press for Comprehensive Initiative to Address Refugee Crisis
October 1, 2015
Washington D.C. – Human Rights First today urged members of Congress to press the Obama Administration to lead a comprehensive global initiative in partnership with European and other…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: September 28, 2015
September 28, 2015
Top News Global Refugee Crisis On Thursday, the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Immigration and National Interest Subcommittee will hold a hearing on the Obama Administration’s Fiscal…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: September 22, 2015
September 22, 2015
Top News Global Refugee Crisis Yesterday, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry announced that the United States will increase the annual number of refugees it…
Blog
Pope’s Visit Should Galvanize U.S. to Meaningfully Respond to Global Refugee Crisis
September 22, 2015
By Eleanor Acer This blog is cross posted from The Huffington Post: As the Syrian conflict rages into its fifth year, it’s all too easy…
Press
Increase in U.S. Refugee Ceiling Falls Short of Meaningful Leadership
September 20, 2015
New York City – Human Rights First today said that Secretary of State John Kerry’s announcement that the United States will increase the annual ceiling for refugee admissions…
Blog
Eleanor Acer Discusses the U.S. Response to the Syrian Refugee Crisis on The Brian Lehrer Show
September 16, 2015
By Megdi Abebe Earlier this week, Human Rights First’s Eleanor Acer was a guest on WNYC’s Brian Lehrer Show. As a response to the global…
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…
Blog
Eleanor Acer on Al Jazeera: The United States Must Do More to Meet Refugee Resettlement Needs
September 10, 2015
The global refugee crisis is intensifying, and the international community, particularly the United States, must do more to meet resettlement needs. As Eleanor Acer emphasized…
Blog
Massimino Discusses Global Refugee Crisis on the Diane Rehm Show
September 9, 2015
By Megdi Abebe Today Human Rights First President and CEO was a guest on “The Diane Rehm Show” where she spoke about the world’s response…
Press
U.S. Leadership Urgently Needed to Address Syrian Refugee Crisis
September 9, 2015
New York City – As Secretary of State John Kerry meets with the Senate and House judiciary committees this morning to discuss the U.S. response to the…
Blog
What the New U.S.-Turkey Agreement Means for the Syrian People
August 7, 2015
By Jordan Dannenberg After months of negotiation, the United States and Turkey have reached an agreement to cooperatively establish an ISIL-free zone along Turkey’s border…
Blog
“Safe” Zones Should Not Trap Syrian Refugees
August 5, 2015
By Eleanor Acer The United States and Turkey have agreed try to clear ISIL militants from a zone within Syria along its border with Turkey.…
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…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: June 15, 2015
June 16, 2015
Top News Torture This week, the Senate is expected to continue consideration of the FY2016 National Defense Authorization Act that includes a bipartisan amendment introduced by Senators John…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: June 8, 2015
June 8, 2015
Top News Torture This week in an historic step forward toward ensuring that torture is never again the official policy of the United States, Senators John…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: June 1, 2015
June 2, 2015
Top News Defense Authorization The Senate is poised to consider its FY16 National Defense Authorization Act, a bill that could have significant ramifications for U.S. national…
Blog
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,…
Press
International Response to Mediterranean Migrant and Refugee Crisis Should Protect Human Rights
May 7, 2015
New York City – As the United Nations considers authorizing the use of force to stop boats from carrying migrants and refugees across the Mediterranean, Human Rights…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: May 4, 2015
May 4, 2015
Top News Immigration Detention Over the weekend, more than 500 people gathered in Dilley, Texas to protest the Obama Administration’s immigration detention policies that have put…
Blog
U.S. Should Listen to Angelina Jolie and Resettle More Syrian Refugees
April 29, 2015
By Eleanor Acer Following the deaths of hundreds of refugees and migrants in the Mediterranean Sea this month, UNHCR Special Envoy Angelina Jolie Pitt called…
Press
Mediterranean Migrant and Refugee Crisis Demonstrates Need for U.S. Leadership to Better Protect Refugees
April 23, 2015
New York City – Following today’s meeting of European Union Leaders in Brussels to discuss a coordinated response to the migrant and refugee crisis in…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: April 6, 2015
April 6, 2015
Top News President Obama to Jamaica On Thursday, President Obama will travel to Jamaica en route to participate in the Summit of the Americas in Panama.…
Press
United States Pledges Increased Aid for Syrian Refugees, Additional Steps Needed
March 31, 2015
New York City – Human Rights First welcomed the Obama Administration’s pledge of an additional $507 million in humanitarian assistance for Syrians, made at an…
Blog
Statelessness is a Human Rights Violation
March 30, 2015
By Erica Qualliotine An estimated 10 million people in the world are stateless. One third are children. When people do not legally exist, they are…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: March 23, 2015
March 23, 2015
Top News GUANTANAMO Retired Marine Corps Major General Vaughn Ary has stepped down from his post overseeing the military commissions at the U.S. detention facility…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: March 16, 2015
March 16, 2015
Top News WAR AUTHORIZATION On Wednesday, Defense Secretary Ashton Carter and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Martin Dempsey will appear before the…
Press
As Syrian Conflict Enters Fifth Year, United States Should Increase Protection and Aid for Refugees
March 13, 2015
New York City – As this week marks the fourth anniversary of the conflict in Syria, Human Rights First urged the Obama Administration to champion…
Transcript
Elisa Massimino Keynote Address on the Case for American Leadership on Human Rights
February 10, 2015
Elisa Massimino Keynote Address American Bar Association Mid-Year Meeting Center for Human Rights Annual Luncheon Houston, Texas February 9, 2015. Thank you so much for…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: February 9, 2015
February 9, 2015
Top News GUANTANAMO This week, the House and Senate Armed Services Committees will both take up the issue of closing the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: February 2, 2015
February 2, 2015
Top News CARTER CONFIRMATION On Wednesday, the Senate Armed Services Committee will hold a confirmation hearing for Ashton Carter, President Obama’s nominee to serve as the…
Blog
Refugees in Egypt Urgently Need Protection
January 29, 2015
By Eleanor Acer Two weeks ago I visited Egypt to speak to some of the many refugees who have sought shelter there from violence and persecution.…
Blog
Syrian Refugees: The Snow is Just One of Many Dire Challenges
January 10, 2015
By Eleanor Acer AMMAN, Jordan – Many Syrian refugees are struggling in the face of a brutal winter storm that has poured snow, rain and hail down on…
Press
In Wake of New Lebanese Border Restrictions, United States Should Champion Protection for Syrian Refugees
January 5, 2015
AMMAN, Jordan – In response to Lebanon’s new border restrictions that could prevent many Syrian refugees fleeing violence from accessing needed protection, Human Rights First today urged…
Blog
U.S. Pledges to Resettle More Syrian Refugees, But Doesn’t Say How Many
December 15, 2014
Last week the United States pledged to lead in resettling Syrian refugees, with U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Population, Refugees and Migration Anne Richard describing how…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: December 1, 2014
December 3, 2014
Top News ISIS Overnight, the United States and members of its coalition to defeat ISIS led an air assault that included as many as 30 airstrikes…
Blog
Winter is Coming
November 19, 2014
About 13.6 million Syrians and Iraqis have been displaced by war, violence, and persecution. Nearly four million of those have escaped to neighboring countries. Two million have left…
Blog
More Needs to be Done to Address the Syrian Refugee Crisis
October 10, 2014
By Eleanor Acer Fighting continues to rage in the Syrian town of Kobani near the border with Turkey, as Kurdish fighters—with support from U.S. airstrikes—attempt to…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: September 22, 2014
September 25, 2014
Top News U.N. General Assembly This week, as the United Nations General Assembly gathers in New York City, President Obama will address member nations on Wednesday…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: September 15, 2014
September 15, 2014
Top News Congressional ISIS Hearings Members of the House and Senate will hold a series of hearings this week on the administration’s plan to address the…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: September 8, 2014
September 8, 2014
Top News ISIS President Obama will deliver an address on Wednesday to detail the administration’s plan for responding to the violence committed by the Islamic State…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: August 18, 2014
August 18, 2014
Top News FAMILIES AT THE BORDER Human Rights First last week visited the Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Artesia, New Mexico, to investigate the challenges…
Blog
As Lebanon Implements Restrictions on Syrian Refugees, U.S. Must Supplement Generous Aid with Robust Leadership on Resettlement
June 11, 2014
As Lebanon places new restrictions on Syrian refugees, Secretary Kerry has announced that the United States will provide another $290 million of humanitarian assistance for those…
Blog
Lebanon Imposes Restrictions on Syrian Refugees
June 10, 2014
For a long time, Lebanon commendably refrained from the kind of border “management” that Turkey, Jordan, and Iraq have each engaged in with regard to…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: June 9, 2014
June 9, 2014
Top News CHIDREN AT THE BORDER Over the… Read More
Blog
Syria’s Election Serves as Stark Reminder to Refugees: They Are Not beyond Assad’s Reach
June 3, 2014
Today, the Syrian regime leads a propaganda exercise that it terms an “election.” Syrians able to vote include only those who are living in regime…
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: June 2, 2014
June 2, 2014
Top News OBAMA TRAVELS TO EUROPE President Obama,… Read More
Blog
Washington Week on Human Rights: May 19, 2014
May 19, 2014
Top News POST-WAR NATIONAL SECURITY On Wednesday morning, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee will hold a hearing on “Authorization for Use of Military Force After Iraq…
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…
Blog
New Camp Opens in Jordan Desert for Syrian Refugees
April 30, 2014
By Eleanor Acer This morning a new UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) refugee camp, Camp Azraq, opened in Jordan. As of today, the new camp will receive all…
Blog
Bahrain Rewards Assad’s Arms Supplier With New Contract
April 30, 2014
By Brian Dooley Yesterday’s news that the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF) has signed another contract with the Russian state-owned arms dealer, Rosoboronexport, is a further depressing…
Blog
In Syria, Phony Ballots amid Real Bombs
April 29, 2014
With 2.7 million Syrians having taken refuge beyond their country’s borders and 6.5 million more having fled their homes and sought shelter elsewhere within the…
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…
Press
New U.S. Sanctions on Russia Punish Putin Allies Involved in Syria Abuses
April 28, 2014
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today praised the Obama Administration’s decision to designate for sanctions Sergey Chemezov and other senior Russian officials and companies…
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…
Opinion
The Guardian: America has resettled 121 of Syria’s 2m refugees. We must do better – now
April 2, 2014
By Eleanor Acer, Refugee Protection When I met with Syrian refugees in Jordan and Turkey a few months ago, many were already struggling with the realization that…
Press
Richard Should Address Syrian Refugee Protection, Resettlement with Turkish Leaders
March 19, 2014
Washington, D.C. – As Assistant Secretary of State Anne Richard meets with her Turkish counterparts this week in Ankara and Adana, Human Rights First urges her to…
Blog
Strong U.S. Commitment and Leadership Key to Launch of Global Resettlement Initiative for Syrian Refugees
March 13, 2014
At an event in Washington, D.C. yesterday, U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees António Guterres emphasized the need for—and indispensable role of—U.S. leadership in the effort to help…
Blog
Elisa Massimino on The Diane Rehm Show
February 26, 2014
By Jess Ballance Today, Human Rights First President and CEO Elisa Massimino was a guest on The Diane Rehm Show, discussing the crisis in Syria. Massimino…
Blog
Malala Shines Light on Children’s Education for Syrian Refugees
February 20, 2014
When she was eleven, Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai spoke out against the Taliban’s effort to deny girls education. When she was fourteen, in response to…
Press
President Obama Urged to Press King Abdullah II on Syrian Refugee Crisis
February 13, 2014
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First urges President Barack Obama to use his meeting with King Abdullah II of Jordan to advance protection for refugees fleeing…
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,…
Fact Sheet
Addressing Barriers to the Resettlement of Vulnerable Syrian and Other Refugees
February 10, 2014
Nearly three years since the onset of violence in Syria, more than 2.4 million Syrians have fled to neighboring countries, many with little hope of…
Press
Syrian Refugees Fleeing Aleppo Denied Protection in Turkey
February 5, 2014
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First calls for increased U.S. engagement with Turkey on the protection of Syrians at the border following today’s reports that…
Press
Administration Acts to Prevent Some Syrian and Other Refugees from Being Denied Protection in United States
February 3, 2014
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First welcomes today’s announcement that the United States will take important steps to address impediments facing refugees waiting to be…
Press
Burns Should Address Syrian Refugee Protection with Jordanian Leaders
January 27, 2014
Washington, D.C. – As Deputy Secretary of State William Burns meets with Jordanian authorities, Human Rights First urges him to raise the barriers preventing some refugees of…
Press
U.S. Commits $380 Million to Syrian Crisis Response
January 15, 2014
Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First welcomes the United States’ pledge of $380 million in humanitarian assistance for the Syrian crisis. At today’s second International Humanitarian…
Press
Overbroad Barriers Stifle U.S. Response to Syrian Refugee Crisis
January 7, 2014
Washington, D.C. – In a statement today to the Senate Judiciary Committee Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and Human Rights, Human Rights First recommended ways for the…
Testimony
Statement for the Record of Human Rights First: The Syrian Refugee Crisis
January 6, 2014
In a statement on January 7, 2014 to the Senate Judiciary Committee Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and Human Rights, Human Rights First recommended…
Report
Refuge at Risk: The Syria Crisis and U.S. Leadership
November 21, 2013
The Syrian conflict has provided the context for some of the world’s most extreme human rights abuses this year. The U.S. threat of force against…
Press
Kerry Trip to Jordan Should Affirm U.S. Commitment to Syrian Refugees, Importance of Access to Protection
November 6, 2013
New York City – As Secretary of State John Kerry heads to Amman, Jordan to discuss a range of bilateral issues, Human Rights First urges him…
Press
Human Rights First Welcomes U.S. Leadership at Syria Refugee Meeting
September 30, 2013
Geneva – Human Rights First welcomes today’s statement by Deputy Secretary of State Bill Burns at a U.N. Refugee Agency (UNHCR) meeting in Geneva to address the…
Blog
United States Should Send a Strong Message on Syrian Refugees at High-Level Meeting Next Week
September 27, 2013
Next week in Geneva, foreign ministers will convene to discuss ways to support Syria’s neighbors as they host hundreds of thousands of refugees. The United…
Press
Obama U.N. Speech Should Lay Out Strategy for Syrian Negotiations; Call for Security Council Resolution
September 23, 2013
New York City – Tomorrow as President Obama addresses the United Nations General Assembly, Human Rights First urges him to call for a Security Council resolution…
Blog
House Hearing Demonstrates the Need for U.S. Leadership on Protection of Syrian Refugees
September 20, 2013
As the number of Syrian refugees registered in neighboring countries continues to rise beyond the two million mark, reports continue to emerge of Syria’s neighbors…
Blog
Syrian Refugees Face Rising Fears in Egypt
September 20, 2013
When Syrian refugees first arrived in Egypt, they were welcomed as brothers and sisters who, just like their hosts, sought freedom from an oppressive regime.…
Press
Obama Return to Diplomatic Channels Praised
September 10, 2013
Washington, D.C. – This evening, following President Obama’s address to the nation making his case to the American people for action on Syria, Human Rights First issued…
Press
President’s Oval Office Remarks Should Detail Broader Strategy
September 10, 2013
Washington, D.C. – As President Obama prepares to deliver his Oval Office address, remarks that will reportedly detail the reasons behind his request for authority to…
Blog
Faith, Human Rights Groups to Urge U.S. Leadership in Protecting the Persecuted
September 9, 2013
By Eleanor Acer With Syria’s refugee crisis hitting the 2 million mark, the world’s attention has been focused this week on the plight of men, women…
Press
Senate Syria Resolution Passes as Questions of Broader Strategy Persist
September 4, 2013
Washington, D.C. –Human Rights First today urged that the U.S. response to the crisis in Syria should be shaped by three priorities: protecting Syrian civilians, reinforcing…
Press
Administration Should Detail Broader Strategy During Syria AUMF Debate
September 3, 2013
Washington, D.C. – As Members of Congress consider the administration’s proposal to launch military strikes against Syria, Human Rights First today urged lawmakers to ensure…
Press
Human Rights First Responds to President Obama’s Remarks on Syria
August 31, 2013
Washington, DC — Today, in response to President Obama’s Rose Garden statement detailing U.S. concerns about the ongoing crisis in Syria and noting that he plans…