Human Rights Watch (HRW) has raised alarms about several executive orders enacted by former US President Donald Trump, citing concerns over their potential impacts on human rights both domestically and internationally. In a statement, HRW indicated that these measures, signed on Trump’s first day in office, pose significant risks to marginalized and vulnerable populations, particularly those disproportionately comprising people of color.
Among the controversial executive orders is one that seeks to end birthright citizenship for children born in the US to parents who entered the country unlawfully or on a temporary basis. This policy is currently entangled in legal battles, as advocacy groups argue it violates the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution, which affirms citizenship for those born in the United States. More information on this legal perspective can be found here.
HRW has also criticized immigration-related policies that they believe obstruct refugees from seeking asylum, accusing them of promoting racial profiling. This suite of policies includes measures such as resuming border wall construction and halting refugee admissions, which are intended to enhance national security. Further analysis of these orders can be accessed here.
Another order that has drawn condemnation prohibits diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within federal operations, effectively barring transgender individuals from military service and denying federal recognition of transgender identities. HRW views this as a setback to workplace equality and protection for minorities.
Internationally, HRW has highlighted the negative effects of Trump’s executive decision that annulled sanctions on individuals compromising stability in the West Bank, which the group believes could further disadvantage Palestinians and impinge on the efforts of the International Criminal Court. Additional critique surrounds Trump’s withdrawal of the US from the Paris Climate Accords and the World Health Organization, moves seen as diminishing US commitment to global issues like climate change and public health.
HRW has concluded by pledging their continued support for human rights defenders globally and committing to resist actions perceived as undermining dignity, freedom, and justice. For a more detailed analysis, please refer to the full article on JURIST.