Global Human Rights System in Peril, HRW Warns

Human Rights Watch has released its World Report 2026, warning that the global human rights system is under severe threat, with 72 percent of the world’s population now living under autocratic rule. The rights group highlighted the United States, China, and Russia as nations whose leaders show “open disdain for norms” and wield considerable economic, military, and diplomatic power. HRW says that the rules-based international order is being weakened, threatening the architecture relied upon by human rights defenders.

The report details abuses across several countries. In the United States, HRW accused the Trump administration of mistreatment of migrants and asylum seekers, the unlawful abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, and actions that undermine international institutions. Israel is cited for attacks in Gaza and demolitions in the West Bank, while Russia’s crackdown on dissent, civil society, and human rights groups continues. In China, authorities are reported to suppress freedom of expression, association, assembly, and religion, targeting critics and minority groups.

Also Read: Gaza Population In ‘Grave Peril’, Says WHO

HRW calls for urgent action to form a new global alliance of governments, civil society, and social movements to defend human rights. The report highlights positive examples from countries such as Costa Rica, Ghana, Malaysia, Mexico, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Vanuatu, which have promoted human rights in international forums. It also points to citizen-led protests in the US, Palestine, Nepal, Indonesia, and Morocco as evidence of enduring public pressure in support of human rights.