Human Rights Watch Criticizes Western Democracies for Double Standards in 2024

The annual HRW report highlights failures in addressing global crises, while pointing to grassroots movements as sources of hope.

The HRW report accuses the Biden administration of hypocrisy for supporting Israel during its Gaza war while condemning Russia's actions in Ukraine.
Western democracies, including the US and EU states, are criticized for inconsistent human rights advocacy, particularly in Gaza and Sudan.
Grassroots movements, such as student-led protests in Bangladesh and mass demonstrations in South Korea, are highlighted as signs of democratic resilience.
The report raises concerns about the return of Donald Trump to the US presidency, warning of potential global setbacks in human rights protections.
HRW underscores the importance of non-traditional actors, like South Africa and civil society groups, in advancing human rights where governments fail.