Respect for human rights is closely intertwined with addressing poverty and extreme inequality. Human Rights Watch research exposes how people experiencing poverty are often more vulnerable to having their rights violated and abuses can further entrench barriers to people meeting their basic needs. We also document how extreme economic inequality contributes to corruption and mismanagement of public resources. We push governments to end abusive policies that contribute to poverty, and advocate respect for human rights that can help achieve the building blocks for a dignified life – such as affordable healthcare, quality education, adequate housing, a living wage, social protection and safe drinking water, as well as the rights to unionize, protest, and participate in political decision-making.
Poverty and Inequality
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Global
January 17, 2024
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Human Rights Watch joins 10 other organizations to provide input regarding Human Rights Council Resolution 52/11 on the question of the realization in all countries of economic, social and cultural rights, with a focus on the right to social security.
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Global
December 19, 2023
Videos
Videos-
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June 15, 2023
In Sheep’s Clothing
United States’ Poorly Regulated Nonprofit Hospitals Undermine Health Care Access
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June 13, 2023
Automated Neglect
How The World Bank’s Push to Allocate Cash Assistance Using Algorithms Threatens Rights
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News
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January 17, 2024
A Human Rights Economy is Key to Sustainable Development
‘Pact for the Future’ Opportunity for Meaningful Reforms
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December 19, 2023
(Re)claiming the Right to Social Security
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November 13, 2023
Homelessness, Destitution, and Hunger Soar in the UK
Ending Poverty Needs Solutions Grounded in Human Rights
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October 5, 2023
Momentum Building to Realign Economic Policies with Human Rights
Statement by Human Rights Watch, Bretton Woods Project, Center for Economic and Social Rights, and Eurodad
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October 5, 2023
IMF / World Bank: Systemic Reforms Needed
New Video Illustrates Impact of Flawed Approach on Rights
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October 3, 2023
Global Demand for Universal Social Security
Groups Press Governments, IMF, World Bank for New Eco-Social Contract
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September 29, 2023
Joint NGO statement on the Guarantee our Essentials campaign
Leading human rights organizations join call for UK social security to include an Essentials Guarantee
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September 25, 2023
IMF: Austerity Loan Conditions Risk Undermining Rights
Compound Problems of Rising Inequality, Flawed Mitigation Efforts
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September 18, 2023
Time to Align Financial Institutions With Human Rights
HRW Oral Statement - ID on the OHCHR Report on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and COVID-19 Recovery - HRC54
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September 12, 2023
Joining Forces for the Right to Social Security
IMF and World Bank Should Change Course