Human Rights

On Aug. 20, 2010, the U.S. government made public its report on its human rights record to the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights. The report is one step in the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process in which UN member-state’s human rights records is examined once every four years. This is the first time the U.S. has submitted a report on its human rights record, and its work drew mixed reviews from civil rights and liberty advocates who had hoped it would reflect more of the concerns and recommendations raised by the U.S. nonprofit sector. The U.S.’ review before the UN is scheduled for Nov. 5, 2010 in Geneva, Switzerland. 

A joint declaration by the United States and European Union saying respecting human rights and complying with international law are “fundamental principles” in combating terrorism received praise from both Justice and State officials. Issued on June 3, 2010, the statement outlines a comprehensive and cooperative anti-terrorist strategy seeking to “diminish the long term threat of violent extremism.” It calls for implementation of UN Resolution 1904, reaffirmation of the 2006 United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, and acknowledges the vital role aid and development groups play in reducing terrorism and addressing the needs of vulnerable people.  

On April 19, 2010 a coalition of charitable, development, human rights and other organizations submitted a report to the United Nations Human Rights Council calling on the United States' government to “re-assess its national security and counterterrorism laws as applied to civil society organizations.” The filing, part of the UN's Universal Periodic Review of the U.S. human rights record, recommended that U.S. laws and policy provide for “clear standards, fair redress procedures, and protection for humanitarian aid, charitable funds and free speech.”  

For the first time, the United States will have its human rights record evaluated by the United Nations Human Rights Council. The UN’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) will assess if the U.S. is meeting its human rights obligations and will offer recommendations for improving the government’s commitments to promoting human rights. The State Department is “encouraging the American public, including non-governmental organizations and civil society” to submit their own evaluations of the U.S.’ adherence to human rights standards. The Charity and Security Network’s report will focus on the negative impact national security laws have had on U.S. nonprofits and their humanitarian programs. Comments are due no later than April 19, 2010.  

In two speeches marking the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Daniel Benjamin, State Department Coordinator for Counterterrorism, acknowledged the role of poverty and injustice in leading people to violence. They said the Obama administration will have a "wide focus" in addressing these issues. To be successful, this focus will need to address counterproductive rules for charities and charitable giving.  

The 60 year anniversary of the four Geneva Conventions served as the backdrop for an appeal to protect vulnerable citizens who have become increasingly targeted in contemporary warfare. At a ceremony in Geneva on Aug. 12, 2009, Jakob Kellenberger, the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) warned that under International Humanitarian Law (IHL) political and military goals cannot supercede the humanitarian imperative.