On this International Human Rights Day, we call on the United States government to uphold international human rights law and to stop supporting authoritarian regimes in the Middle East and North Africa, ensuring impunity for international crimes, and undermining human rights and democracy. Such actions not only undermine the interests of the people of the region, but also of the United States.
In Syria, the fall of the Assad regime marks a historic moment. Syria has been deeply scarred by more than half a century of authoritarian rule, marred by brutal repression and systemic human rights abuses that amount to crimes against humanity. While Syrians celebrate this turning point with hope for a brighter future, the United States should support the Syrian people’s efforts in rebuilding democratic institutions, ensuring justice for victims of state violence, and safeguarding fundamental freedoms.
The Israeli campaign of genocide in Gaza and the war on Lebanon must end, including the horrific atrocities against civilians, especially women and children; forcible displacement; deliberate destruction of vital infrastructure, including hospitals, schools and universities; blocking of humanitarian aid; and unprecedented targeting of journalists and aid workers. These grave human rights violations have undermined international law and accountability.
Across the Middle East and North Africa, there are severe human rights abuses crushing democratic aspirations. Democracy cannot flourish without the protection of human rights, and human rights cannot be fully realized without democratic governance. The United States should ensure that its policies and actions are fully aligned with these two inseparable pillars of a just and equitable society and uphold international law in support of global peace and freedom.
Signed,
Middle East Democracy Center (MEDC)
