Criminal Justice
Many of the most serious human rights violations in the US occur in the realm of criminal justice. The criminal justice system—from policing and prosecution through to punishment—is plagued with injustices like racial disparities, excessively harsh sentencing, and drug and immigration policies that improperly emphasize criminalization. As a result, the United States has the largest reported prison population in the world. Specific policies often have a particularly harsh impact on youth, racial minorities or low-income populations accused of or victimized by crime. Jail and prison conditions are in many respects unsafe and inhumane. The US Program investigates such injustices and advocates for reforms to ensure that the US meets its international legal obligations to ensure accountability for serious offenses, while doing so in a fair and non-discriminatory manner.
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A Roadmap for Re-imagining Public Safety in the United States
14 Recommendations on Policing, Community Investment, and Accountability
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News
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NY Attorney General Sues Police for Violence Against Protesters
Case Could Lead to a Greater Reckoning Over Police Abuses
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US: Systemic Rights Failings
Capitol Attack, Pandemic, Police Killings, Racial Injustice, Migrants’ Rights, Economic Disparities
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US Architects Join Movement Against Capital Punishment, Torture
Revised Code Prohibits Design of Death Chamber, Solitary Confinement
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US: House Votes to End Marijuana Prohibition
Senate Should Pass Landmark Legislation to Advance Racial Justice, Equity
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US: No Justice 6 Months Since New York Police Assault
Mayor Should Urgently Address Accountability, Deter Further Abuse
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Curbing Political Threats by Law Enforcement in the US
Authorities Should Ensure Police Protect All People
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Californians Vote for Criminal Legal System Reform
Voters Support Efforts to Reduce Incarceration, Reimagine Public Safety
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Important Test as Pennsylvania Deploys National Guard
Authorities Should Ensure Forces Respect Rights
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Use of Force is Wrong Response to Mental Health in US
Police Killing in Philadelphia Underscores Need for Supportive Responses to Emotional Crises