Overview

• The 2024 report was published in mid-August after a multi-month delay and runs a fraction of the length of previous editions.
• Traditional chapters on gender-based violence, prison conditions, elections and systemic corruption have been omitted or drastically curtailed.
• The new text concentrates on freedom of expression, with pointed criticism of European governments for speech-restriction laws.
• Former career staffers, rights groups and foreign governments warn that the narrow scope undermines U.S. credibility and could weaken asylum adjudications and legal advocacy.
• Supporters defend the changes as aligning reports with current administration priorities even as lawsuits seek internal State Department documents.