Criminal Justice
Many of the most serious human rights violations in the US occur within the criminal legal system and target people of color. This system is plagued with injustices, including policies that improperly and disproportionately criminalize people of color, poor people, and immigrants, abusive police practices, unfair procedures, and excessively harsh sentencing. The United States has the largest reported prison population in the world and many communities live under constant surveillance and fear of law enforcement. Killings by police are rampant. Court processes are often unfair, coercive, and overly punitive. Jail and prison conditions are often unsafe and inhumane. The US Program investigates such injustices and advocates for changes to ensure that the US meets its international legal obligations while ensuring accountability and community safety.
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United States
June 28, 2023
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Children's Rights
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Children's Rights
Videos
Videos-
June 28, 2023
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August 8, 2022
Racial Discrimination in the United States
Human Rights Watch / ACLU Joint Submission Regarding the United States’ Record Under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination
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May 21, 2021
US: Failed Justice 100 Years After Tulsa Race Massacre
Commission Alienates Survivors; State, City Should Urgently Ensure Reparations
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News
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September 26, 2023
Rights Groups Urge Congress to Support the TEST Act
Don’t Criminalize Substances Without Testing for Harm
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September 7, 2023
Human Rights Watch’s Continued Opposition to AB 645
Letter to California State Senators
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August 7, 2023
Human Rights Watch’s Opposition to SB 43
Letter to California Assembly Appropriations Committee
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August 7, 2023
Human Rights Watch's Opposition to AB 645
Letter to California Senate Appropriations Committee
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June 28, 2023
US: Californians Once Facing Life without Parole Give Back
Landmark Decisions for Release Result in Stronger Communities
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June 28, 2023
“I Just Want to Give Back”: The Reintegration of People Sentenced to Life Without Parole
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May 3, 2023
Opposition to the Protect and Serve Act of 2023
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April 20, 2023
Over 80 Groups Urge Biden Administration to End Federal Prohibition of Marijuana and Support Comprehensive Reform