CIVICUS, an international human rights monitor, added the United States to its watchlist due to the Trump administration’s assault on democratic norms and global cooperation. The decision cited the administration’s executive orders undermining democratic institutions, budget cuts to vital organizations, and crackdowns on protests and press freedom. These actions, characterized as an unprecedented attack on the rule of law, included arbitrary arrests, visa cancellations, and intimidation tactics against dissent. The watchlisting reflects growing international concern over the Trump administration’s erosion of democratic principles and institutions.
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The United States’ inclusion on a human rights watchlist, specifically CIVICUS’s monitor list, is a significant development sparking considerable debate. The nonprofit organization directly links this addition to actions taken by President Donald Trump since his return to office. This is undeniably a controversial move, raising questions about the state of human rights within the United States and the implications for its international standing.
This development has generated a wide spectrum of reactions. Some view it as a long-overdue recognition of the erosion of human rights under certain political administrations, arguing that the US has, for too long, avoided accountability for its actions on the world stage.… Continue reading
The CIVICUS Monitor has added the United States to its watchlist, citing a narrowing of civic space under the Trump administration. This designation reflects concerns over assaults on democratic norms, significant cuts to foreign aid, crackdowns on diversity initiatives, and intimidation tactics chilling dissent. While acknowledging some freedoms remain, CIVICUS points to government actions restricting free speech and press access, including instances of censorship and press pool manipulation. The White House rejects this assessment, but the “narrowed” classification reflects ongoing challenges to fundamental rights and freedoms.
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The Civicus Monitor has added the United States to its 2025 watchlist due to a perceived rapid decline in civic freedoms. This follows the Trump administration’s actions, which Civicus describes as an “unparalleled attack on the rule of law,” citing mass employee terminations, withdrawal from international organizations, and crackdowns on protests. The US currently holds a “narrowed” rating, indicating occasional violations of civic freedoms, but Civicus warns of a potential shift to “obstructed” status. This designation reflects concerns about the erosion of checks and balances and the potential for emboldening authoritarian regimes globally.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood