New York Committee

Engaging the New York community to defend human rights worldwide

The New York Committee raises awareness of local and global human rights issues, generates support, and mobilizes the public and governments worldwide to recognize basic freedoms for all. This constituency joins a global network consisting of 13 committees and many individual supporters in cities around the world. Our 500 informed and engaged opinion leaders from a variety of backgrounds play a key role in the defense of human rights.

About the Network

New York Committee members participate in meaningful dialogue with Human Rights Watch investigators and hear firsthand accounts from the frontlines of human rights work. The Committee focuses on three areas:

• Advocacy: Members have met with influential policy makers and legislators in Congress to push for the ban of cluster munitions, stop the use of child soldiers, and restore habeas corpus to all detainees in US custody. Advocacy also worked on using the occasion of the Beijing Olympics to promote human rights in China.
• Outreach: The events organized by the Committee increase visibility of Human Rights Watch and introduce new people to our work. They have ranged from a meeting with Kofi Annan in his final days as UN secretary General and press conference with President Michelle Bachelet just after former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori was extradited from Chile to the special events held during the renowned Human Rights Watch International Film Festival at Lincoln Center.
• Fundraising: The Annual Voices for Justice Dinner, the Human Rights Watch International Film Festival, and other generous major gifts received throughout the year provide the essential funding to defend human rights and save lives. Annually, New York Committee members contribute between $5,000 and $100,000 or more depending on level of involvement and capacity.

About Human Rights Watch

We are widely recognized for in-depth investigations, informed policy recommendations, and the ability to generate intense pressure to confront human rights abuses. Through our monitoring and advocacy in nearly 80 countries, we work to promote human rights for all.