On Human Rights Day, the United States highlighted its efforts in promoting human rights globally over the past four years. The Department of State, with bipartisan support from Congress, invested over $1.06 billion in foreign assistance to advance these goals.
The U.S. has worked to protect human rights defenders and journalists by broadening engagement with civil society and providing tools for democratic reformers. "We bolstered support to democratic reformers," a statement noted, emphasizing the importance of empowering marginalized groups.
To safeguard journalists and civil society organizations (CSOs), the Department established mechanisms like the Journalism Protection Platform and provided financial support through initiatives such as the Lifeline: Embattled CSOs Assistance Fund. The administration also released the National Action Plan on Responsible Business Conduct to enhance respect for human rights and labor rights.
Efforts have been made to advocate for the release of unjustly detained individuals worldwide, including securing releases in Nicaragua and Russia. Additionally, new tools were unveiled to promote accountability for wrongful detentions.
In promoting civilian protection, the U.S. elevated human rights considerations in security decisions through initiatives like the Civilian Harm Incident Response Guidance and expanded training under the Elie Wiesel Genocide and Atrocity Prevention Act.
The U.S. addressed transnational threats by raising awareness about transnational repression (TNR) and implementing policies such as the Khashoggi Ban to restrict visas for those engaged in TNR activities.
Corruption was identified as a core threat to democracy, prompting actions to strengthen accountability measures globally. In technology, initiatives focused on ensuring that emerging technologies align with democratic values were undertaken.
Accountability measures included imposing sanctions on individuals involved in human rights abuses under programs like the Global Magnitsky Sanctions Program. Visa restrictions were applied to thousands of individuals undermining democracy or engaging in repressive activities.
Collaboration with global partners played a key role in advancing these objectives. The U.S. rejoined UN bodies and engaged regional organizations to counter authoritarianism and promote human rights standards worldwide.
For more information on these efforts, inquiries can be directed to DRLPressRequests@state.gov.
