Human Rights Reports Issued
Posted Apr 25, 2003

On March 31, 2003, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced the release of the Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for 2002. These reports are mandatory under law for all countries that receive foreign assistance under the Foreign Assistance Act, as well as for all countries that are members of the United Nations. Reports are also prepared for some countries that do not fit within these mandates.

The highly detailed reports take all aspects of human rights practices and violations and break them down into very specific categories. The topics covered include: The right of citizens to change their government; Freedom of movement within the country; Freedom of religion, Freedom of assembly and association; Denial of fair, public trials; Discrimination of all types; Torture and other inhuman treatment; Child and forced labor. The reports are not for the feint-of-heart. They reveal abuse, disappearances, mutilations, and complete lack of freedom that is beyond the imaginations of most Americans. They reflect, however, the daily reality for many across the globe.

The reports are used for a number of governmental purposes. In the context of immigration law, they are always taken into consideration in Asylum cases. In releasing the reports, U.S. Secretary of State, Colin Powell stated that the reports "reflect the steadfast commitment of the United States to advance internationally agreed human rights principles worldwide." He noted that the reports "will help shape the Bush Administration's policy decisions as we work toward a safer, freer world." We urge our own government to pass favorable immigration laws and policies for those whose lives and liberties are in jeopardy and who look to the U.S. as their beacon of hope and freedom.