Human Rights

US: New Policy on Autonomous Weapons Flawed

A new United States Department of Defense directive concerning development of autonomous weapons systems is an inadequate response to the threats posed by removing human control from the use of force, Human Rights Watch said in a report issued on...

Myanmar: Political Parties Law Shackles Opposition

Myanmar’s new political parties law will prevent key members of the political opposition from running in upcoming elections, Human Rights Watch said on February 14, 2023. The law, announced on January 26, 2023, adds to concerns that the vote now...

Gaza: Sisters at Risk After Return to Father

Gaza authorities should urgently ensure the safety and freedom of two adult sisters reported to be in forced confinement at the hands of their father and at risk of serious harm since their forcible return a month ago, Human Rights Watch said on...

Pakistan: IMF Bailout Should Advance Economic Rights

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) should work with Pakistan’s government to protect the economically disadvantaged by broadening social protection systems and minimizing reform measures that risk further harm to the most vulnerable people, Human...

UN Message to Ghana on Mental Health Care

United Nations member countries have urged the Ghanaian government to address the shackling and inhumane treatment of people with mental health conditions in Ghana, Human Rights Watch said on February 06, 2023. These recommendations were made on...

Allegations of Bangladesh Police Torture, Illegal Detentions

Bangladesh authorities should investigate recent allegations of enforced disappearances and torture including by members of the police Detective Branch.

Burundi: Journalist’s Conviction Violates Free Speech Rights

The conviction of the Burundian journalist Floriane Irangabiye on charges of “undermining the integrity of the national territory” on January 2, 2023, violates her rights to free speech and to a fair trial, Human Rights Watch said on February 02, 2023...

Libya: human rights abuses must be addressed, says UN probe

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Migrants sit in the courtyard of a detention centre in Libya.

Myanmar: 2 Years Since Coup, Worsening Repression

Myanmar’s junta, in the two years since the military coup, has expanded its use of deadly force and repressive measures to squelch all dissent, Human Rights Watch said on January 31, 2023. Foreign governments should coordinate increased pressure on...

UK: Court to Rule on Arms Sales to Saudi Arabia

The United Kingdom’s High Court of Justice is scheduled to hear a challenge to the UK government’s renewed arms sales to Saudi Arabia this afternoon, Human Rights Watch said on January 31, 2023. The UK government should immediately stop granting...