Senate Urged to Act on the Nomination of Tom Malinowski to Key Human Rights Post

Washington D.C – Human Rights First along with a broad based group of human rights, democracy, and labor rights organizations today urged the Senate to immediately act on the nomination of Tom Malinowski as Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor. The call came in a letter to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, emphasizing the importance of swift action to fill this position and strengthen the ability of the U.S. government to advance human rights around the world.

“The Senate’s failure to take action on the position dedicated to advancing human rights, democracy, and labor rights sends a damaging message that the United States does not prioritize these issues, precisely when many of the global challenges we face as a nation implicate them,” wrote Human Rights First’s Elisa Massimino. “It has been more than 250 days since Mr. Malinowski was nominated. Voting on his nomination should be a high priority for the Senate.”

As the United States engages in the important diplomatic work of promoting the universal values of human rights and strengthening national security, the administration needs leadership from the Bureau for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor. The Senate should immediately vote on the nomination of Mr. Malinowski, who enjoys bipartisan support with no known opposition to his appointment.