Amnesty International’s recent report raises alarms over the increasing authoritarian tendencies in the United States, detailing several areas where the rule of law and human rights are under threat. This comprehensive analysis, titled Ringing the Alarm Bells: Rising Authoritarian Practices and Erosion of Human Rights in the United States, identifies specific actions and policies as contributing factors.
The report highlights twelve critical areas of concern, often linking them to the policies of former President Donald Trump. Central to this discussion is the erosion of free speech and the right to protest. The federal midterm elections of November 2026 are identified as a pivotal moment in assessing democratic resilience, with threats to voting rights particularly emphasized.
Press freedom is under scrutiny, with instances of limited access for journalists and targeted deportation proceedings. Specific cases include the suspension of the Associated Press’ credentials after a refusal to use the term “Gulf of America,” and the Department of Defense’s restrictions on reporters. Concerns around the arrest and attempted deportation of pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil further highlight issues in this domain.
The report also examines the militarization of domestic law enforcement. Instances where military forces, such as the National Guard, were deployed in U.S. cities like Los Angeles demonstrate a potential misuse of military power. Amnesty International underscores these practices as detrimental to free speech and democracy.
In addition, the report calls attention to diminishing anti-discrimination protections. Policies perceived as undermining transgender rights are a focal point, pointing to actions that limit representation and support for LGBTQ+ individuals. Paul O’Brien, Amnesty International USA Executive Director, warns these actions reflect a global trend of human rights challenges.
Beyond domestic concerns, the U.S.’s withdrawal from 66 international organizations suggests a decreasing commitment to international cooperation, further complicating the human rights landscape.
To address these issues, the report encourages various stakeholders, including state governments and technology companies, to take proactive measures in reinforcing human rights protections. The broader global context of these challenges is corroborated by insights offered through additional coverage on platforms such as BBC News, which align with Amnesty’s observations.