Human Rights Watch (HRW) has recently been in the news due to its advocacy on various global human rights issues. The organization has highlighted the plight of Afghan refugees facing pressure to return to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, where they risk persecution. Additionally, HRW has condemned the actions of the Philippine government regarding its anti-drug operations, which have resulted in thousands of deaths. The group has also raised alarms about the treatment of women in Afghanistan following the Taliban's ban on female medical education, and it has criticized the Israeli military's actions in Gaza amid ongoing conflict.
Founded in 1978, Human Rights Watch is an international non-governmental organization based in New York City. It conducts extensive research and advocacy on human rights issues worldwide, focusing on exposing abuses and holding violators accountable. HRW engages with governments, policymakers, and corporations to promote human rights and seeks to influence public opinion through detailed reports and campaigns. The organization operates in over 90 countries and is known for its rigorous documentation of human rights violations, making it a prominent voice in the global human rights movement.
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Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on March 12, 2025, upon returning from Hong Kong, following an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant for crimes against humanity related to his anti-drug campaign. He is the first Asian leader to face trial at the ICC, where he is accused of overseeing extrajudicial killings during his presidency from 2016 to 2022.
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Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on March 12, 2025, under an International Criminal Court warrant for extrajudicial killings during his controversial anti-drug campaign. This event marks a significant moment in international law, as Duterte faces charges for crimes against humanity linked to thousands of deaths.
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Human Rights Watch has urged Pakistan to halt the forced return of Afghan refugees, citing a March 31 deadline for deportations. Many Afghans face persecution and dire conditions if returned to Afghanistan, where the Taliban's rule has worsened human rights abuses since 2021.
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Indonesia's parliament has approved controversial amendments to military law, allowing armed forces personnel to hold more civilian positions. Critics warn this could lead to a resurgence of military influence reminiscent of the Suharto era, raising concerns over human rights and democratic governance.
