Terrorism / Counterterrorism
Violent acts by non-state groups against the general population for political purposes are abhorrent crimes that, when widespread or systematic, can amount to crimes against humanity. Human Rights Watch condemns such acts. Governments have a responsibility to protect those within their jurisdiction from extremist attacks, but must ensure that all counterterrorism measures respect human rights. Human Rights Watch monitors actions by governments and inter-governmental bodies against violent extremism to ensure they do not infringe on the rights to life, to protection from torture and ill-treatment, and to a fair trial. We also condemn governments for targeting minorities or stifling the rights to free expression, association and peaceful assembly in the name of security. Such measures are not only unlawful under international law, they are also counter-productive.
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Niger: Surging Atrocities by Armed Islamist Groups
Over 420 Civilians Killed During Attacks, Massacres in 2021
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Mali: Killings, ‘Disappearances’ in Military Operations
Investigate Alleged Security Force Abuses in Mopti Region
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News
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Sahel: Top UN Rights Official Visits Burkina Faso, Niger
Governments Should Protect Civilians, Investigate Abuses
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Guantanamo Military Jury Condemns US Treatment of Detainee
Majid Khan Publicly Describes Torture at Sentencing Hearing
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Civilians in Mali’s Ségou Region at Risk
Alleged Killings by Military, Armed Islamist Groups Go Unpunished
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Mali: Alleged ‘Disappearances,’ Executions by Security Forces
UN Security Council Should Urge Investigations of Abuses by All Sides
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A Step Toward Justice for Guantanamo Detainee
Despite US Federal Court Ruling, Continued Detention Likely
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Niger: Surging Atrocities by Armed Islamist Groups
Over 420 Civilians Killed During Attacks, Massacres in 2021
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Sri Lanka: Free Rights Activist
Release Hejaaz Hizbullah and Others Denied Due Process under Abusive Law
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Revised UN Counterterrorism Strategy Has Stronger Rights Focus
Human Rights Monitoring Mechanism Still Urgently Needed
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