For the first time, the United States has been added to a global human rights watchlist, joining nations like Serbia and Congo due to concerns about the erosion of civic freedoms. This change was announced by CIVICUS, an organisation advocating for democracy, which placed the US in its “narrowed” category for human rights.
CIVICUS’s report attributes this classification to actions taken during President Donald Trump’s tenure, which they argue have weakened democratic freedoms. Once a symbol of democracy, the US now finds itself alongside 37 other countries experiencing “narrowed” freedoms, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Chile.
Mandeep Tiwana, interim co-secretary-general of CIVICUS, expressed deep concern, describing the current climate as a significant threat to the rule of law, reminiscent of the McCarthy era. He cited Trump’s executive orders, mass federal employee firings, and intimidation tactics that foster an environment hostile to democratic dissent.
Tiwana stated, “The actions of this administration are chilling free expression and civil rights, which have long been pillars of American democracy.” Although the CIVICUS rating allows for some civil freedoms to be exercised, reports of increasing violations have emerged, signalling a drastic decline in the US’s democratic standing.
The report highlights Trump’s extensive reshuffling of federal agencies, replacing seasoned civil servants with loyalists, and dismantling organisations like USAID, traditionally known for humanitarian efforts. Concerns about the commitment to democratic principles arise from these changes.
Additionally, the US government has rolled back policies on diversity and equity, suppressed pro-Palestinian protests, and stopped support for undocumented immigrants. Critics argue these actions signal a troubling slide towards authoritarianism, threatening fundamental freedoms.
The US’s status on the CIVICUS watchlist has degraded over time; in 2020, it entered the “obstructed” category following reports of repression against mass protests.
The United States has been placed on a global human rights watchlist for the first time, joining countries like Serbia and Congo due to eroding civic freedoms. CIVICUS cites President Trump’s administration for undermining democracy, with actions that raise alarms about increasing authoritarian tendencies. Mandeep Tiwana of CIVICUS highlights the chilling impact on civil rights, noting a significant decline in the US’s democratic standing.
The inclusion of the United States on the CIVICUS human rights watchlist serves as a stark reminder of the worsening state of civic freedoms under the Trump administration. With growing authoritarian tendencies and actions that undermine democratic principles, the once-proud champion of democracy faces significant scrutiny, prompting concerns about its future commitment to protecting civil rights.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk
