A “Frightening” Domestic Record
In its annual World Report released this week, Human Rights Watch (HRW) issues a stark alarm over the “challenge posed by Trump to human rights.” The assessment details a systematic assault on democratic institutions within the United States, describing the first year of Donald Trump’s return to the White House as a “dangerous slide into authoritarianism.”
Bénédicte Jeannerod, HRW’s France director, summarized the findings as “frightening,” noting the administration’s broad attack on checks and balances. “The list is almost too long for a single interview; it’s dizzying,” she stated.
Undermining Justice and a Free Press
The report documents sustained pressure on the judiciary and media. Trump’s administration has repeatedly ignored court rulings, particularly on immigration, while the president has publicly denounced judges as “radicalized.” Such attacks from the highest office have fostered a climate of fear, with several judges reportedly facing threats.
The press is another pillar under fire. HRW cites instances where access for major outlets like the Associated Press was restricted and highlights intimidation tactics aimed at prompting self-censorship. The suspension of host Jimmy Kimmel by ABC following a satirical sketch—later reversed—is noted as a prominent example of this pressure.
“Appalling” Anti-Migrant Policies and Targeting Minorities
HRW identifies immigrants and those perceived as immigrants as primary victims of Trump’s policies. “The anti-migrant policies put in place are appalling,” Jeannerod said, criticizing rhetoric that stigmatizes entire populations.
The organization reports on mass raids, arrests, and expulsions to third countries like Costa Rica and El Salvador, sometimes without due process. In some cases, expulsions have led to reports of “rape, torture, and sexual abuse.” The rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly transgender people, and women’s access to abortion are also highlighted as being under targeted attack.
Exporting a “Global Disorder”
The repercussions extend far beyond U.S. borders, with HRW describing a “global disorder.” While acknowledging pre-existing challenges to international order from powers like Russia and China, the report accuses the Trump administration of adding “an unprecedented level of excess and ferocity.”
This includes targeting institutions like the International Criminal Court (ICC), with sanctions against officials involved in cases such as the arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump’s support for illiberal forces in Europe, notably Hungary’s Viktor Orbán, is also cited.
Faced with a “brutal and outrageous” U.S. foreign policy coupled with trade war threats, HRW calls for a collective “awakening.” Jeannerod urges a coalition of states to counter the destruction of the international order, while finding hope in the “vitality of civil societies” worldwide.
