The United States highlighted a deteriorating picture for&nbsp;human&nbsp;rights across the world on Tuesday.

The State Department released reports on the&nbsp;rights situation last year in nearly 200 countries, which are required annually by law.

The report states that India has several significant human right issues including unlawful and arbitrary killings, restrictions on freedom of expression, corruption and tolerance of violations of religious freedom.

However, it appreciated the restoration of normalcy in Kashmir, saying ''The government continued taking steps to restore normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir by gradually lifting some security and communications restrictions.''

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-human-rights-report-lambasts-china-over-uighur-atrocities-374537">US human rights report lambasts China over Uighur atrocities</a>

The trendlines on human rights continue to move in the wrong direction, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said.

Governments that respect human rights are more likely to support the rules-based international order that the US and its allies have built and invested in for decades and decades, Blinken said.

Some have argued that it is not worth it for the US to speak up forcefully for human rights or highlight abuse only in select countries and only in a way that "directly advances our national interests", he noted.

"We will hear from some countries as we do every year that we have no right to criticise them because we have our own challenges to deal with," he said.&nbsp;

America's judgement is unsolicited as neither India nor any other country asked for the report.

The information for the report is collected from random sources NGOs, academics and activists. Their&nbsp;opinions are influenced by their politics.

The report praises allies of the United States. Blinken himself admitted that the US has to work on itself and is open towards the idea.&nbsp;

George Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man, died after a white police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes as Floyd lay on the pavement in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Floyd’s death has sparked global protests about racial inequality and police brutality, and renewed pledges from some to fight racism.

The number of immigrant families apprehended by US&nbsp;agents along the southern border nearly tripled in February from a month earlier to about 19,000 people. Hunger and poverty are spurring their flight. So is disinformation that has rocketed across social media and by word of mouth that the US&nbsp;border is now wide open.

According to government statistics, on Monday the&nbsp;Department of Health and Human Services,&nbsp;had 12,035 migrant children in its care, while the US Customs and Border Protection, the agency which first processes migrants, was holding another 4,068.&nbsp;

American troops deployed all across the world&nbsp;commit horrendous crimes&nbsp;in the name of security and get get a free pass for them in there country.

American presidents have carpet-bombed civilians and&nbsp;starved rival nations with sanctions.

The United States highlighted a deteriorating picture for human rights across the world on Tuesday. The State Department released reports on the rights situation last year in nearly 200 countries, which are required annually by law.

The United States highlighted a deteriorating picture for human rights across the world on Tuesday. The State Department released reports on the rights situation last year in nearly 200 countries, which are required annually by law. The report states that India has several significant human right issues including unlawful and arbitrary killings, restrictions on freedom of expression, corruption and tolerance of violations of religious freedom. However, it appreciated the restoration of normalcy in Kashmir, saying ''The government continued taking steps to restore normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir by gradually lifting some security and communications restrictions.'' Also read| US human rights report lambasts China over Uighur atrocities The trendlines on human rights continue to move in the wrong direction, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said. Governments that respect human rights are more likely to support the rules-based international order that the US and its allies have built and invested in for decades and decades, Blinken said. Some have argued that it is not worth it for the US to speak up forcefully for human rights or highlight abuse only in select countries and only in a way that "directly advances our national interests", he noted. "We will hear from some countries as we do every year that we have no right to criticise them because we have our own challenges to deal with," he said. America's judgement is unsolicited as neither India nor any other country asked for the report. The information for the report is collected from random sources NGOs, academics and activists. Their opinions are influenced by their politics. The report praises allies of the United States. Blinken himself admitted that the US has to work on itself and is open towards the idea. George Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man, died after a white police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes as Floyd lay on the pavement in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Floyd’s death has sparked global protests about racial inequality and police brutality, and renewed pledges from some to fight racism. The number of immigrant families apprehended by US agents along the southern border nearly tripled in February from a month earlier to about 19,000 people. Hunger and poverty are spurring their flight. So is disinformation that has rocketed across social media and by word of mouth that the US border is now wide open. According to government statistics, on Monday the Department of Health and Human Services, had 12,035 migrant children in its care, while the US Customs and Border Protection, the agency which first processes migrants, was holding another 4,068. American troops deployed all across the world commit horrendous crimes in the name of security and get get a free pass for them in there country. American presidents have carpet-bombed civilians and starved rival nations with sanctions.

Are human rights a US monopoly?

10 months ago, a death in America led to worldwide outrage. 46-year-old George Floyd died in police custody. A police officer knelt on his neck for close to 10 minutes. The death of George Floyd led to the birth of a movement. These pictures went viral. &nbsp; &nbsp;

CCTV cameras and police bodycams captured the events leading up to Floyd's death. The fatal arrest was a clear case of excessive use of police force. It also highlighted a pattern of systemic racism in the US. &nbsp;

Racial profiling, excessive violence, police brutality and the virus of racism, this too is a pandemic and America is in denial. It sees the problem in others. &nbsp;

The US state department is set to release a report on human rights. Washington will sit in judgement of nearly 200 countries and their human rights record but what about America's own human rights record? &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-has-us-failed-to-fight-racism-374371">Watch |</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-has-us-failed-to-fight-racism-374371/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

10 months after the killing of George Floyd. The virus of racism is alive and thriving in America. It is targeting not just African Americans but even Asian Americans. &nbsp;

The US, the self-appointed champion of human rights, has failed to secure the most basic rights of its own people. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On Monday, the officer accused for the murder of George Floyd went on trial. Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin faces three charges, second degree murder, third degree murder and manslaughter.&nbsp;

On the 25th of May last year, he was the cop, who arrested George Floyd. Floyd had allegedly tried passing a counterfeit 20 dollar bill at a grocery store. Chauvin was among a group of four cops responding to the police call. They found Floyd inside a car across the grocery store. &nbsp;

First, the police officers pulled him out. Floyd was handcuffed, forced to face down on the street while Chauvin pressed his knee on Floyd's neck.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-black-americans-get-justice-374377">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-black-americans-get-justice-374377/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

That stomach churning moment was captured by bystanders. On Monday, the jury was shown that video. "I can't breathe". Those words led to a global campaign against racism. &nbsp;

The United States saw violent protests across 50 states. Since then, the country has witnessed a change of guard, a new president, a new government but racism in America has only got worse. &nbsp;

In recent weeks and months, Asian Americans have come under attack. Consider these numbers, hate crimes against Asian Americans surged 149 per cent. An advocacy group received more than 2,800 reports of hate crimes. In all of these incidents, Asian Americans were the target. &nbsp;

This month, three day-spas in Georgia were attacked. Eight people died in the shootings. Six of the victims were women of Asian descent. It's quite evident. This attacker was motivated by race. &nbsp;

After African Americans last year, Asian Americans took to the streets this month. They too are demanding equal rights and amid the raging debate, one lawmaker decided to make a statement. &nbsp;

This is Lee Wong, an elected official in Ohio. At the meeting of the trustees in West Chester township, Wong decided to make a statement against the rising hate. &nbsp;

Lee Wong is a war veteran. He got up, took off his shirt to reveal the scars of war he endured for America. Lee Wong, West Chester Township trustee, said, "For too long, I have put up with a lot of s*** in silence. Excuse me the language. Too afraid to speak out, fearing more abuse and discrimination." &nbsp;

"There are some ignorant people that will come up to me and say that I don't look American - or patriotic enough. Now that really gets my goat." &nbsp;

"People questioning my patriotism? that I don't look American enough? They could not get over this face. I want to show you something. I want to tell you, because I'm not afraid." &nbsp;

"I'm 69-years-old, and I'm going to show you what patriotism - the questions about patriotism - looks like." &nbsp;

"Here is my proof. (lifts up shirt to reveal scar) This is sustained through my service in the US military. now, is this patriot enough? I'm not ashamed to walk around anymore." &nbsp;

Lee Wong moved from China to the United States more than 50 years ago. He spent two decades in the army. He serves his community as a trustee. Even after serving Americans all these years, he has to prove his loyalty to America. The divide became deeper after the insurrection at the US Capitol. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Here is yet another example. Violence broke out near the Oregon state Capitol building. Two groups on opposite ends of the political spectrum came face to face. One was the far-right group called Proud Boys and the second was the far-left, anti-fascists. They clashed. One of them tried to run his car into a protester. The police looked helpless. &nbsp;

African Americans demanding justice for police brutality, Asian Americans being targeted in hate crimes, political opponents engaged in violent clashes. This is the America that human rights reports hardly talk about.&nbsp;

10 months ago, a death in America led to worldwide outrage. 46-year-old George Floyd died in police custody. A police officer knelt on his neck for close to 10 minutes.

10 months ago, a death in America led to worldwide outrage. 46-year-old George Floyd died in police custody. A police officer knelt on his neck for close to 10 minutes. The death of George Floyd led to the birth of a movement. These pictures went viral. CCTV cameras and police bodycams captured the events leading up to Floyd's death. The fatal arrest was a clear case of excessive use of police force. It also highlighted a pattern of systemic racism in the US. Racial profiling, excessive violence, police brutality and the virus of racism, this too is a pandemic and America is in denial. It sees the problem in others. The US state department is set to release a report on human rights. Washington will sit in judgement of nearly 200 countries and their human rights record but what about America's own human rights record? Watch | 10 months after the killing of George Floyd. The virus of racism is alive and thriving in America. It is targeting not just African Americans but even Asian Americans. The US, the self-appointed champion of human rights, has failed to secure the most basic rights of its own people. On Monday, the officer accused for the murder of George Floyd went on trial. Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin faces three charges, second degree murder, third degree murder and manslaughter. On the 25th of May last year, he was the cop, who arrested George Floyd. Floyd had allegedly tried passing a counterfeit 20 dollar bill at a grocery store. Chauvin was among a group of four cops responding to the police call. They found Floyd inside a car across the grocery store. First, the police officers pulled him out. Floyd was handcuffed, forced to face down on the street while Chauvin pressed his knee on Floyd's neck. Watch | That stomach churning moment was captured by bystanders. On Monday, the jury was shown that video. "I can't breathe". Those words led to a global campaign against racism. The United States saw violent protests across 50 states. Since then, the country has witnessed a change of guard, a new president, a new government but racism in America has only got worse. In recent weeks and months, Asian Americans have come under attack. Consider these numbers, hate crimes against Asian Americans surged 149 per cent. An advocacy group received more than 2,800 reports of hate crimes. In all of these incidents, Asian Americans were the target. This month, three day-spas in Georgia were attacked. Eight people died in the shootings. Six of the victims were women of Asian descent. It's quite evident. This attacker was motivated by race. After African Americans last year, Asian Americans took to the streets this month. They too are demanding equal rights and amid the raging debate, one lawmaker decided to make a statement. This is Lee Wong, an elected official in Ohio. At the meeting of the trustees in West Chester township, Wong decided to make a statement against the rising hate. Lee Wong is a war veteran. He got up, took off his shirt to reveal the scars of war he endured for America. Lee Wong, West Chester Township trustee, said, "For too long, I have put up with a lot of s*** in silence. Excuse me the language. Too afraid to speak out, fearing more abuse and discrimination." "There are some ignorant people that will come up to me and say that I don't look American - or patriotic enough. Now that really gets my goat." "People questioning my patriotism? that I don't look American enough? They could not get over this face. I want to show you something. I want to tell you, because I'm not afraid." "I'm 69-years-old, and I'm going to show you what patriotism - the questions about patriotism - looks like." "Here is my proof. (lifts up shirt to reveal scar) This is sustained through my service in the US military. now, is this patriot enough? I'm not ashamed to walk around anymore." Lee Wong moved from China to the United States more than 50 years ago. He spent two decades in the army. He serves his community as a trustee. Even after serving Americans all these years, he has to prove his loyalty to America. The divide became deeper after the insurrection at the US Capitol. Here is yet another example. Violence broke out near the Oregon state Capitol building. Two groups on opposite ends of the political spectrum came face to face. One was the far-right group called Proud Boys and the second was the far-left, anti-fascists. They clashed. One of them tried to run his car into a protester. The police looked helpless. African Americans demanding justice for police brutality, Asian Americans being targeted in hate crimes, political opponents engaged in violent clashes. This is the America that human rights reports hardly talk about.

Is America's human rights record declining? 

The United States recently slapped sanctions on Chinese officials.&nbsp;Do you know why?&nbsp;For 'serious human rights abuses targeting Uighurs'.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The US also imposed sanctions on Cuba's Interior Minister.&nbsp;What for?&nbsp;'serious human rights violations'.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On the December&nbsp;10,&nbsp;2020, the US announced sanctions against firms and individuals from Haiti,&nbsp;Yemen&nbsp;and Russia.&nbsp;Again, what for?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Serious human rights violations!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Here's the document.&nbsp;Let's rewind.&nbsp;7 months before the release of this&nbsp;document.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the very same United States,&nbsp;a man's most basic right,&nbsp;the right to life,&nbsp;was snatched away from him.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Officers knelt on his neck and chocked him to death.&nbsp;George&nbsp;Floyd&nbsp;was one of the 4 people of&nbsp;colour&nbsp;to be killed by&nbsp;American&nbsp;cops in 2020.&nbsp;Between 2013 and 2019, 42 of every 1 million&nbsp;African-Americans&nbsp;were killed in police shooting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-black-americans-get-justice-374377">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-black-americans-get-justice-374377/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Where was the American human rights police then?&nbsp;And what exactly was the treasury department doing?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Perhaps, schooling other countries on human rights.&nbsp;Washington wants to champion this cause&nbsp;but it has failed to protect the rights of its own people.&nbsp;&nbsp;

America dishes out sanctions abroad&nbsp;but&nbsp;at home,&nbsp;it turns a blind eye to human rights&nbsp;violations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 2019, 65% of Americans said it was common for people to express racist or racially insensitive views.&nbsp;Why does racism continue to fester in the US?&nbsp;&nbsp;

For starters, America has a&nbsp;history&nbsp;of systemic racism,&nbsp;a legacy of slavery and Jim Crow,&nbsp;one where treating people of&nbsp;colour&nbsp;as inferior&nbsp;or the lesser lot&nbsp;was&nbsp;normalised&nbsp;and totally legal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today, slavery has been outlawed.&nbsp;It's been over 150 years since America passed the 13th amendment act&nbsp;but in practice,&nbsp;the legacy of racism continues&nbsp;to&nbsp;shadow&nbsp;the life of every black&nbsp;American.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-has-us-failed-to-fight-racism-374371">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-has-us-failed-to-fight-racism-374371/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In 2018, 88% of the people stopped by the police in New&nbsp;York&nbsp;City were black or&nbsp;latin&nbsp;American.&nbsp;&nbsp;

70% of them were innocent.&nbsp;This is according to the New&nbsp;York&nbsp;Civil Liberties Union.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Racism in the United States exacerbated post 9/11.&nbsp;Prejudice was now laced with Islamophobia.&nbsp;Muslims were vilified,&nbsp;so were Sikhs,&nbsp;Arabs&nbsp;and people of South Asian&nbsp;descent.&nbsp;They were all called names,&nbsp;Taliban,&nbsp;terrorist,&nbsp;Osama&nbsp;Bin Laden'.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Attorneys offices have investigated 800 incidents involving violence, threats, vandalism and arson against Arab-americans, Muslims, Sikhs, South-Asian Americans and those&nbsp;perceived to be of middle eastern origin,&nbsp;all post 9/11.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 2009, Barack Obama entered the White House with a promise to end racism.&nbsp;What happened?&nbsp;For years,&nbsp;American leaders have leveraged racism,&nbsp;peddled the issue of race to garner support from white&nbsp;americans.&nbsp;In the 1960s, Richard Nixon stirred up the fear of black empowerment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 2016, it was Donald Trump fanning the flames of racism once again,&nbsp;fuelling&nbsp;white supremacy.&nbsp;Trump may be gone, but Trumpism stays.&nbsp;In fact, it's become worse.&nbsp;&nbsp;

What happened to&nbsp;Muslims&nbsp;post 9/11,&nbsp;also happened to Asian Americans since the&nbsp;coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;Hate crimes against them increased nearly 150%.&nbsp;Nearly 3,800 hate crimes were recorded between March 2020 and March 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

68% of these were against women.&nbsp;The pandemic&nbsp;killed people of&nbsp;colour&nbsp;at higher rates.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Exposed America's health disparity.&nbsp;It was in the middle of the very same pandemic that George Floyd was killed.&nbsp;The murder exposed America's 'us' versus 'them' divide.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

It also triggered the largest mass&nbsp;demonstration&nbsp;in American history.&nbsp;

Drew 9% of the country to the streets&nbsp;but what has changed?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cut to&nbsp;November, and&nbsp;Donald&nbsp;Trump increased his votes,&nbsp;his supporters targeted Ilhan Omar,&nbsp;the Congresswoman from George Floyd's home state of&nbsp;Minessota,&nbsp;send her back the white supremacist chanted.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The question is sent her back where?&nbsp;From George Floyd to Rayshard Brooks and Daniel Prude.&nbsp;They were or are just as American.&nbsp;Their identity is not&nbsp;dependant&nbsp;on the&nbsp;colour&nbsp;of their skin.&nbsp;How long before Americans&nbsp;realise&nbsp;this?&nbsp;Here's something Kamala&nbsp;Harris&nbsp;recently said,&nbsp;'Racism is real in&nbsp;America, and it has always been. Xenophobia is real in America and always has been'.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It's high time authorities did something about it,&nbsp;instead of preaching others, perhaps look at their own record.&nbsp;The US cannot be hoisting the flag of liberty with its knee on the neck of a black man.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It cannot be celebrating the&nbsp;American&nbsp;dream by choking the dreams of minorities.&nbsp;Slavery was a southern evil.&nbsp;Racism is&nbsp;pan-American.&nbsp;As of 2019, 78% of blacks believe that&nbsp;America&nbsp;has not gone far enough in giving blacks equal rights with the whites.&nbsp;50% believe blacks will never likely have equal&nbsp;rights.&nbsp;&nbsp;

84% believe the legacy of slavery affects the position of black people in&nbsp;American&nbsp;society.&nbsp;71% think race relations in the US are generally bad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Washington must acknowledge these&nbsp;faultlines&nbsp;first when later tonight it sits in the judgment of 200&nbsp;countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The US is evaluating the status of 200 countries on human rights. It is set to release its report on human rights practices.&nbsp;Look inwards.&nbsp;Charity, as they say, begins at home.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The United States recently slapped sanctions on Chinese officials. Do you know why? For 'serious human rights abuses targeting Uighurs'. The US also imposed sanctions on Cuba's Interior Minister.

The United States recently slapped sanctions on Chinese officials. Do you know why? For 'serious human rights abuses targeting Uighurs'. The US also imposed sanctions on Cuba's Interior Minister. What for? 'serious human rights violations'. On the December 10, 2020, the US announced sanctions against firms and individuals from Haiti, Yemen and Russia. Again, what for? Serious human rights violations! Here's the document. Let's rewind. 7 months before the release of this document. In the very same United States, a man's most basic right, the right to life, was snatched away from him. Officers knelt on his neck and chocked him to death. George Floyd was one of the 4 people of colour to be killed by American cops in 2020. Between 2013 and 2019, 42 of every 1 million African-Americans were killed in police shooting. Watch | Where was the American human rights police then? And what exactly was the treasury department doing? Perhaps, schooling other countries on human rights. Washington wants to champion this cause but it has failed to protect the rights of its own people. America dishes out sanctions abroad but at home, it turns a blind eye to human rights violations. In 2019, 65% of Americans said it was common for people to express racist or racially insensitive views. Why does racism continue to fester in the US? For starters, America has a history of systemic racism, a legacy of slavery and Jim Crow, one where treating people of colour as inferior or the lesser lot was normalised and totally legal. Today, slavery has been outlawed. It's been over 150 years since America passed the 13th amendment act but in practice, the legacy of racism continues to shadow the life of every black American. Watch | In 2018, 88% of the people stopped by the police in New York City were black or latin American. 70% of them were innocent. This is according to the New York Civil Liberties Union. Racism in the United States exacerbated post 9/11. Prejudice was now laced with Islamophobia. Muslims were vilified, so were Sikhs, Arabs and people of South Asian descent. They were all called names, Taliban, terrorist, Osama Bin Laden'. The Attorneys offices have investigated 800 incidents involving violence, threats, vandalism and arson against Arab-americans, Muslims, Sikhs, South-Asian Americans and those perceived to be of middle eastern origin, all post 9/11. In 2009, Barack Obama entered the White House with a promise to end racism. What happened? For years, American leaders have leveraged racism, peddled the issue of race to garner support from white americans. In the 1960s, Richard Nixon stirred up the fear of black empowerment. In 2016, it was Donald Trump fanning the flames of racism once again, fuelling white supremacy. Trump may be gone, but Trumpism stays. In fact, it's become worse. What happened to Muslims post 9/11, also happened to Asian Americans since the coronavirus outbreak. Hate crimes against them increased nearly 150%. Nearly 3,800 hate crimes were recorded between March 2020 and March 2021. 68% of these were against women. The pandemic killed people of colour at higher rates. Exposed America's health disparity. It was in the middle of the very same pandemic that George Floyd was killed. The murder exposed America's 'us' versus 'them' divide. It also triggered the largest mass demonstration in American history. Drew 9% of the country to the streets but what has changed? Cut to November, and Donald Trump increased his votes, his supporters targeted Ilhan Omar, the Congresswoman from George Floyd's home state of Minessota, send her back the white supremacist chanted. The question is sent her back where? From George Floyd to Rayshard Brooks and Daniel Prude. They were or are just as American. Their identity is not dependant on the colour of their skin. How long before Americans realise this? Here's something Kamala Harris recently said, 'Racism is real in America, and it has always been. Xenophobia is real in America and always has been'. It's high time authorities did something about it, instead of preaching others, perhaps look at their own record. The US cannot be hoisting the flag of liberty with its knee on the neck of a black man. It cannot be celebrating the American dream by choking the dreams of minorities. Slavery was a southern evil. Racism is pan-American. As of 2019, 78% of blacks believe that America has not gone far enough in giving blacks equal rights with the whites. 50% believe blacks will never likely have equal rights. 84% believe the legacy of slavery affects the position of black people in American society. 71% think race relations in the US are generally bad. Washington must acknowledge these faultlines first when later tonight it sits in the judgment of 200 countries. The US is evaluating the status of 200 countries on human rights. It is set to release its report on human rights practices. Look inwards. Charity, as they say, begins at home.

Why has US failed to fight racism? 

Sri Lanka is in a fix. This weekend, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, just over a week before a crucial vote at United Nations Human Rights Council.

Colombo wants to avoid a defeat at the world stage and escape the global scrutiny on the issue of human rights. Especially after its recent decision to ban the burqa and close 1,000 Islamic schools. &nbsp;

A press release from New Delhi says, among other things, the two leaders discussed cooperation in multilateral fora.&nbsp;The&nbsp;statement says a lot more, but mention of 'multilateral forums' stands out. Next week, Sri Lanka faces a crucial vote at the UNHRC in Geneva and it's bad news for Colombo.&nbsp;

The resolution is backed by Canada and the UK. It says the human rights situation in Sri Lanka is deteriorating. The civilian government's functions are being militarised. Institutions like the judiciary are losing their independence, minorities are being marginalised and the civil society and media are facing intimidation.&nbsp;

When this scathing resolution comes up for a vote in Geneva, Sri Lanka reportedly wants India's support. Will they get it?&nbsp;

India can choose to abstain but Colombo cannot be sure.&nbsp;

A statement made by an Indian diplomat in Geneva signals that India is unhappy with Sri Lanka. Last month, India said the UN Human Rights chief's report on Sri Lanka raises ''important concerns''. There was also a mention of "respecting the rights of the Tamil community".&nbsp;

India was referring to the report from January released by the UN Human Rights chief. The report says Sri Lanka is on an alarming path towards the recurrence of grave human rights violations. It adds that,&nbsp;since taking power, the Sri Lankan president has appointed at least 28 serving or former military and intelligence personnel. They have been given key administrative posts in the government. This includes senior military officials, who were implicated by the United Nations in alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during the civil war that ended nearly 12 years ago. &nbsp;

New Delhi has more reasons to be upset with Colombo. Sri Lanka recently refused to honour a port agreement with Japan and India and went ahead with an energy project with a Chinese company close to the coast of Tamil Nadu. The Rajapaksa government says it has offered an alternative terminal project with the vote at the UNHRC looming.&nbsp;

The Sri Lankan foreign secretary said last month in an interview, "India cannot abandon us". The Modi government has a choice to listen to that appeal and abstain from the vote but if it chooses to send a message, Sri Lanka might struggle to defend itself at the UN.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka is in a fix. This weekend, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, just over a week before a crucial vote at United Nations Human Rights Council.

Sri Lanka is in a fix. This weekend, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, just over a week before a crucial vote at United Nations Human Rights Council. Colombo wants to avoid a defeat at the world stage and escape the global scrutiny on the issue of human rights. Especially after its recent decision to ban the burqa and close 1,000 Islamic schools. A press release from New Delhi says, among other things, the two leaders discussed cooperation in multilateral fora. The statement says a lot more, but mention of 'multilateral forums' stands out. Next week, Sri Lanka faces a crucial vote at the UNHRC in Geneva and it's bad news for Colombo. The resolution is backed by Canada and the UK. It says the human rights situation in Sri Lanka is deteriorating. The civilian government's functions are being militarised. Institutions like the judiciary are losing their independence, minorities are being marginalised and the civil society and media are facing intimidation. When this scathing resolution comes up for a vote in Geneva, Sri Lanka reportedly wants India's support. Will they get it? India can choose to abstain but Colombo cannot be sure. A statement made by an Indian diplomat in Geneva signals that India is unhappy with Sri Lanka. Last month, India said the UN Human Rights chief's report on Sri Lanka raises ''important concerns''. There was also a mention of "respecting the rights of the Tamil community". India was referring to the report from January released by the UN Human Rights chief. The report says Sri Lanka is on an alarming path towards the recurrence of grave human rights violations. It adds that, since taking power, the Sri Lankan president has appointed at least 28 serving or former military and intelligence personnel. They have been given key administrative posts in the government. This includes senior military officials, who were implicated by the United Nations in alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during the civil war that ended nearly 12 years ago. New Delhi has more reasons to be upset with Colombo. Sri Lanka recently refused to honour a port agreement with Japan and India and went ahead with an energy project with a Chinese company close to the coast of Tamil Nadu. The Rajapaksa government says it has offered an alternative terminal project with the vote at the UNHRC looming. The Sri Lankan foreign secretary said last month in an interview, "India cannot abandon us". The Modi government has a choice to listen to that appeal and abstain from the vote but if it chooses to send a message, Sri Lanka might struggle to defend itself at the UN.

Sri Lanka seeks India's help to save face at crucial UNHRC vote 

Ahead of a crucial vote at the UNHRC, Sri Lanka's President Gotabaya Rajapaksa spoke to India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi. At UNHRC, Sri Lanka faces a resolution on its human rights record. Which way will India vote? WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Ahead of crucial UN vote, President Rajapaksa speaks to PM Modi

Europe's top human rights body on Friday urged the immediate release of two opponents of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, saying Ankara was violating rulings by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) which ordered their release.

The ECHR, which is part of the Council of Europe, had in separate rulings told Turkey to release philanthropist Osman Kavala and pro-Kurdish politician Selahattin Demirtas who are both jailed.

Considering both cases, the committee of ministers of the Council of Europe said that Turkey was violating the ECHR rulings by failing to free the two men.

Supporters say that Demirtas and Kavala are being punished for daring to oppose Erdogan, although Ankara insists that the Turkish judiciary is independent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-unveils-human-rights-action-plan-to-protect-freedom-of-expression-in-turkey-367527">Erdogan unveils 'human rights action plan' to protect freedom of expression in Turkey</a>

In Kavala's case, the committee called for his immediate release and said it would send a letter to Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu "conveying the Committee's deep concern about the applicant's continuing detention".

It said his situation and the violation of the ECHR ruling "reveal pervasive problems regarding the independence and impartiality of the Turkish judiciary".

For Demirtas, a charismatic Kurdish politician who stood against Erdogan in 2014 and 2018 presidential elections, the committee said his continued detention would entail a prolongation of the violation of the applicant's rights as well as a breach of the obligation of the respondent state to abide by the Court's judgement".

"It therefore urged the authorities to ensure the applicant's immediate release."

Amnesty International's Europe Director Nils Muiznieks welcomed the committee's close monitoring of their situation and said their detention "made a mockery" of a human rights action plan announced last week by Erdogan.

"Osman Kavala and Selahattin Demirtas have been arbitrarily and unjustly deprived of their liberty for years, despite the binding Court decisions that they be released.

"This action plan and Turkey's generic platitudes cannot hide the reality (that in Turkey) freedom of expression is ruthlessly punished," he said.

Demirtas was convicted of disseminating terror propaganda in 2018 and is facing other charges that could see him sentenced to 142 years behind bars.

The ECHR ruled in December that Turkish authorities violated Demirtas' rights to free speech and called his jailing "cover for an ulterior political purpose".

The next hearing in Kavala's trial is expected on May 21. He faces life in prison if convicted of charges of seeking to overthrow the state in 2013 protests and the 2016 failed coup bid which he denies.&nbsp;

Demirtas has been held in jail since November 2016 and Kavala since October 2017.

Europe's top human rights body on Friday urged the immediate release of two opponents of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, saying Ankara was violating rulings by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) which ordered their release.

Europe's top human rights body on Friday urged the immediate release of two opponents of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, saying Ankara was violating rulings by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) which ordered their release. The ECHR, which is part of the Council of Europe, had in separate rulings told Turkey to release philanthropist Osman Kavala and pro-Kurdish politician Selahattin Demirtas who are both jailed. Considering both cases, the committee of ministers of the Council of Europe said that Turkey was violating the ECHR rulings by failing to free the two men. Supporters say that Demirtas and Kavala are being punished for daring to oppose Erdogan, although Ankara insists that the Turkish judiciary is independent. Also read | Erdogan unveils 'human rights action plan' to protect freedom of expression in Turkey In Kavala's case, the committee called for his immediate release and said it would send a letter to Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu "conveying the Committee's deep concern about the applicant's continuing detention". It said his situation and the violation of the ECHR ruling "reveal pervasive problems regarding the independence and impartiality of the Turkish judiciary". For Demirtas, a charismatic Kurdish politician who stood against Erdogan in 2014 and 2018 presidential elections, the committee said his continued detention would entail a prolongation of the violation of the applicant's rights as well as a breach of the obligation of the respondent state to abide by the Court's judgement". "It therefore urged the authorities to ensure the applicant's immediate release." Amnesty International's Europe Director Nils Muiznieks welcomed the committee's close monitoring of their situation and said their detention "made a mockery" of a human rights action plan announced last week by Erdogan. "Osman Kavala and Selahattin Demirtas have been arbitrarily and unjustly deprived of their liberty for years, despite the binding Court decisions that they be released. "This action plan and Turkey's generic platitudes cannot hide the reality (that in Turkey) freedom of expression is ruthlessly punished," he said. Demirtas was convicted of disseminating terror propaganda in 2018 and is facing other charges that could see him sentenced to 142 years behind bars. The ECHR ruled in December that Turkish authorities violated Demirtas' rights to free speech and called his jailing "cover for an ulterior political purpose". The next hearing in Kavala's trial is expected on May 21. He faces life in prison if convicted of charges of seeking to overthrow the state in 2013 protests and the 2016 failed coup bid which he denies. Demirtas has been held in jail since November 2016 and Kavala since October 2017.

Europe rights body urges 'immediate' release of Erdogan critics

Zarifa Ghafari, one of Afghanistan's first female mayors, has expressed shock at the decision by the country's education ministry to ban girls aged 12 and above from singing the national anthem or other songs, equating the move with opening gates for the Taliban.

"I am shocked and amazed on this decision by the Afghanistan Ministry of Education. I don't know how it is possible for the Ministry to take such a decision especially in the case of women. This kind of decision means opening the gate for Taliban," Ghafari, mayor of Maidan Shahr, capital city of the Wardak province, told WION.

The Ministry of Education on Wednesday announced to the ban on girls aged 12 and above from singing the national anthem or other songs. However, girls will be allowed to sing at women-only events. All government and private schools have to implement this ban.

The announcement received a backlash among social media users.

"People are making fun of it on Twitter and Facebook. How can you decide what a woman wants? If a girl wants to sing the national anthem, how can you stop them? Who are you to stop them?," said the 29-year-old human rights activist in an exclusive interview to WION.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-afghanistan-bans-girls-from-singing-in-public-369802&lt;div class=&quot;videoWrapper trancodeVideo&quot;&gt;&lt;iframe src=&quot;https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-afghanistan-bans-girls-from-singing-in-public-369802/embed&quot; width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;350&quot; style=&quot;width:100%;max-width:560px;&quot; class=&quot;includeVideo&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; autoplay=1 allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-afghanistan-bans-girls-from-singing-in-public-369802/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This is not the first time that the education ministry has come under fire. The country's Education Minister Rangina Hamidi last year had sought to shift school classes from one to three to mosques, stating it would “strengthen the Islamic identity of the students,” and bring Afghanistan’s religious schools, or madrassas, into the mainstream.

Referring to this, Zafari said, "First we had an announcement by the ministry to shift some schools inside mosques. With these mosques and maulvi, we know how the education will be. And now this amazing announcement."

"National anthem is a thing that I feel every child, every girl, every woman, every boy, every man needs to know. I don't know how they (Ministry of Education) can think and form these decisions," she added.

Zafari, whose father was killed and has survived several attempts on her own life for bringing reforms in the province where Taliban has a strong influence, said the government should work towards empowering&nbsp; women instead of passing such orders which will add to their oppression.

"For upcoming generation, it is important to have an education system which is more qualified...and most importantly, there should be no gender extremism in it. This way, we will be able to empower women&nbsp;who are able to come out and gain education," she said.

Zafari, one of the youngest and first female mayors in the country, added , "As a free human being, girls should have the right to choose what they love and want. No rules should be made to stop them from doing whatever they love. Rules, laws and policies are formed by the government for the betterment of its people. But this law is forcing women to stop."

"When people are thinking of living at Mars, Afghanistan is rolling backwards. I feel like we are in 1919 because whatever is happening here is worse than it was in the past. Situation in Afghanistan today is very grim. There is no guarantee what will happen today or in future. I wish things would get better&nbsp;so that at least my sister could have a better future than me," she said.

Zafari urged the President of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani to review the order.

"I will wish his excellency first lady and Mr President himself look into this more wisely, as it takes a lot of courage for women to step out and risk everything like me. Not many women can pay the cost I paid including my father's murder by the Taliban."

Zarifa Ghafari, one of Afghanistan's first female mayors, has expressed shock at the decision by the country's education ministry to ban girls aged 12 and above from singing the national anthem or other songs, equating the move with opening gates for the Taliban.

Zarifa Ghafari, one of Afghanistan's first female mayors, has expressed shock at the decision by the country's education ministry to ban girls aged 12 and above from singing the national anthem or other songs, equating the move with opening gates for the Taliban. "I am shocked and amazed on this decision by the Afghanistan Ministry of Education. I don't know how it is possible for the Ministry to take such a decision especially in the case of women. This kind of decision means opening the gate for Taliban," Ghafari, mayor of Maidan Shahr, capital city of the Wardak province, told WION. The Ministry of Education on Wednesday announced to the ban on girls aged 12 and above from singing the national anthem or other songs. However, girls will be allowed to sing at women-only events. All government and private schools have to implement this ban. The announcement received a backlash among social media users. "People are making fun of it on Twitter and Facebook. How can you decide what a woman wants? If a girl wants to sing the national anthem, how can you stop them? Who are you to stop them?," said the 29-year-old human rights activist in an exclusive interview to WION. WATCH | This is not the first time that the education ministry has come under fire. The country's Education Minister Rangina Hamidi last year had sought to shift school classes from one to three to mosques, stating it would “strengthen the Islamic identity of the students,” and bring Afghanistan’s religious schools, or madrassas, into the mainstream. Referring to this, Zafari said, "First we had an announcement by the ministry to shift some schools inside mosques. With these mosques and maulvi, we know how the education will be. And now this amazing announcement." "National anthem is a thing that I feel every child, every girl, every woman, every boy, every man needs to know. I don't know how they (Ministry of Education) can think and form these decisions," she added. Zafari, whose father was killed and has survived several attempts on her own life for bringing reforms in the province where Taliban has a strong influence, said the government should work towards empowering women instead of passing such orders which will add to their oppression. "For upcoming generation, it is important to have an education system which is more qualified...and most importantly, there should be no gender extremism in it. This way, we will be able to empower women who are able to come out and gain education," she said. Zafari, one of the youngest and first female mayors in the country, added , "As a free human being, girls should have the right to choose what they love and want. No rules should be made to stop them from doing whatever they love. Rules, laws and policies are formed by the government for the betterment of its people. But this law is forcing women to stop." "When people are thinking of living at Mars, Afghanistan is rolling backwards. I feel like we are in 1919 because whatever is happening here is worse than it was in the past. Situation in Afghanistan today is very grim. There is no guarantee what will happen today or in future. I wish things would get better so that at least my sister could have a better future than me," she said. Zafari urged the President of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani to review the order. "I will wish his excellency first lady and Mr President himself look into this more wisely, as it takes a lot of courage for women to step out and risk everything like me. Not many women can pay the cost I paid including my father's murder by the Taliban."

Afghanistan opened gates for Taliban: Mayor hits out at ban on girls' public singing

Beijing's persecution of Uighurs is not new, it has been termed as genocide and a violation of Human Rights by major world powers. The Uighurs continue to be subjected to intimidation and threats. WION tells you more.

High level Chinese study exposes Uighur's persecution

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has pledged to bolster <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/practice-what-you-preach-this-is-indias-message-to-turkey-366292">Turkey's </a>judicial and&nbsp;economic system while initiating the "human rights action plan"&nbsp;to protect freedom of expression.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/targeted-by-president-erdogan-lgbtq-groups-face-hate-in-turkey-365667/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-jails-three-for-aiding-carlos-ghosn-escape-from-japan-365948">Turkey's</a> government plans to strengthen civil liberties after criticism from Western allies over erosion and suppression of human rights.

"Our aim is to strengthen even more the concept of a state of law based on human rights. We will regularly review legislation and implementation accordingly and will take all necessary precautions. Thereby, we are speeding up talks with the European Union, especially on issues that we expect to encounter in the visa liberalisation dialogue," the Turkey president said.

Erdogan outlined several new measures centering around several areas, with focus on the speeding up of trial proceedings and observation of human rights condition in prisons&nbsp;and easing the professional activities of journalists.

The Turkish&nbsp;president also spoke about improved press freedoms and freedom of expression in Turkey, which would guarantee minorities the right to take paid leave during non-Muslim holidays.

In order to curb violence against women, &nbsp;special investigation bureaus will be established, which will investigate violent crimes against women. The plan also ensures law-enforcement officials are trained in observing human rights.

The measures would be implemented in the next two years and Erdogan said that his government's ultimate goal would be to draft a new constitution.

Erdogan's pledge&nbsp;to improve the country's troubled record on human rights come ahead of a key meeting over the country's EU accession hopes.

Human rights violations have been a key obstacle to Turkey's ongoing attempts to join the bloc, with negotiations taking place on a stop-start basis since a meeting of the European Council in Copenhagen in 2002.

The bloc’s leaders will meet this month to review its relationship with Ankara, which has been further strained by a dispute over Turkish drilling in the eastern Mediterranean.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has pledged to bolster Turkey's judicial and economic system while initiating the "human rights action plan" to protect freedom of expression.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has pledged to bolster Turkey's judicial and economic system while initiating the "human rights action plan" to protect freedom of expression. Watch: Turkey's government plans to strengthen civil liberties after criticism from Western allies over erosion and suppression of human rights. "Our aim is to strengthen even more the concept of a state of law based on human rights. We will regularly review legislation and implementation accordingly and will take all necessary precautions. Thereby, we are speeding up talks with the European Union, especially on issues that we expect to encounter in the visa liberalisation dialogue," the Turkey president said. Erdogan outlined several new measures centering around several areas, with focus on the speeding up of trial proceedings and observation of human rights condition in prisons and easing the professional activities of journalists. The Turkish president also spoke about improved press freedoms and freedom of expression in Turkey, which would guarantee minorities the right to take paid leave during non-Muslim holidays. In order to curb violence against women, special investigation bureaus will be established, which will investigate violent crimes against women. The plan also ensures law-enforcement officials are trained in observing human rights. The measures would be implemented in the next two years and Erdogan said that his government's ultimate goal would be to draft a new constitution. Erdogan's pledge to improve the country's troubled record on human rights come ahead of a key meeting over the country's EU accession hopes. Human rights violations have been a key obstacle to Turkey's ongoing attempts to join the bloc, with negotiations taking place on a stop-start basis since a meeting of the European Council in Copenhagen in 2002. The bloc’s leaders will meet this month to review its relationship with Ankara, which has been further strained by a dispute over Turkish drilling in the eastern Mediterranean.

Erdogan unveils 'human rights action plan' to protect freedom of expression in Turkey

China, under growing global pressure over its treatment of a Muslim minority in its far west, is mounting an unprecedented and aggressive campaign to push back, including explicit attacks on women, who have made claims of abuse.&nbsp;

As allegations of human rights violations in Xinjiang mount, with a growing number of Western lawmakers accusing China of genocide, Beijing is focussing on discrediting the female Uighur witnesses behind recent reports of abuse.&nbsp;

Chinese officials have named women, disclosed what they say is private medical data and information on the women's fertility, and accused some of having affairs and one of having a sexually transmitted disease. The officials said the information was evidence of bad character, invalidating the women's accounts of abuse in Xinjiang.&nbsp;

"To rebuke some media's disgusting acts, we have taken a series of measures," Xu Guixiang, the deputy head of Xinjiang's publicity department, told a December news conference that was part of China's pushback campaign. It includes hours-long briefings, with footage of Xinjiang residents and family members reading monologues.&nbsp;

A Reuters review of dozens of hours of presentations from recent months and hundreds of pages of literature, as well as interviews with experts, shows a meticulous and wide-reaching campaign that hints at China's fears that it is losing control of the Xinjiang narrative.&nbsp;

"One reason that the Communist Party is so concerned about these testimonies from women is because it undermines their initial premise for what they're doing there, which is anti-terrorism", said James Millward, a professor of Chinese history at Georgetown University and expert in Xinjiang policy.&nbsp;

"The fact that there are so many women in the camps ... who don't have the faintest appearance of being violent people, this just shows how this has nothing to do with terrorism."&nbsp;

China, under growing global pressure over its treatment of a Muslim minority in its far west, is mounting an unprecedented and aggressive campaign to push back, including explicit attacks on women, who have made claims of abuse.

China, under growing global pressure over its treatment of a Muslim minority in its far west, is mounting an unprecedented and aggressive campaign to push back, including explicit attacks on women, who have made claims of abuse. As allegations of human rights violations in Xinjiang mount, with a growing number of Western lawmakers accusing China of genocide, Beijing is focussing on discrediting the female Uighur witnesses behind recent reports of abuse. Chinese officials have named women, disclosed what they say is private medical data and information on the women's fertility, and accused some of having affairs and one of having a sexually transmitted disease. The officials said the information was evidence of bad character, invalidating the women's accounts of abuse in Xinjiang. "To rebuke some media's disgusting acts, we have taken a series of measures," Xu Guixiang, the deputy head of Xinjiang's publicity department, told a December news conference that was part of China's pushback campaign. It includes hours-long briefings, with footage of Xinjiang residents and family members reading monologues. A Reuters review of dozens of hours of presentations from recent months and hundreds of pages of literature, as well as interviews with experts, shows a meticulous and wide-reaching campaign that hints at China's fears that it is losing control of the Xinjiang narrative. "One reason that the Communist Party is so concerned about these testimonies from women is because it undermines their initial premise for what they're doing there, which is anti-terrorism", said James Millward, a professor of Chinese history at Georgetown University and expert in Xinjiang policy. "The fact that there are so many women in the camps ... who don't have the faintest appearance of being violent people, this just shows how this has nothing to do with terrorism."

Under pressure, China goes aggressive to push back Uighur women claims

United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has tabled a resolution expressing concerns about the forced cremation policy for coronavirus victims in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

The government does not allow Muslims and Christians to be buried and they must all be cremated. Because it fears the buried victims will contaminate the soil with the virus. There is no scientific basis for it. &nbsp;

The UNHRC says this policy goes against the belief of minorities. 11 per cent of Sri Lankan population follows Islam. They have been demanding an end to forced cremations.&nbsp;

The resolution also calls upon Colombo to hold human rights abusers to account. At least 25 military officers accused of war crimes have been pardoned by the Rajapaksa government. The resolution urges Sri Lanka to bring them to justice. The Lankan govt has called the resolution politically motivated and Sri Lanka, a victim of an unprecedented propaganda campaign. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, in probe of Easter Bombings, where Sri Lanka witnessed one of the worst terror attacks in recent history on an easter Sunday around 21 months ago. Suicide bombers killed at least 253 people and some 500 others were injured. There were at least six coordinated blasts, targeting churches and top-end hotels, mostly in Colombo. A presidential commission investigated the attacks and now, the report has come out. There are a total of 10 conclusions. Two of them have raised eyebrows. &nbsp;

First, the commission has recommended criminal charges against the former President of Sri Lanka Maithripala Sirisena. It says there's evidence to prove criminal liability on his part and the second targets the former prime minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe. It accuses him of a lax approach towards Islamic extremism. It says this was one of the primary reasons for the failure of the security apparatus.&nbsp;

United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has tabled a resolution expressing concerns about the forced cremation policy for coronavirus victims in Sri Lanka. The government does not allow Muslims and Christians to be buried and they must all be cremated.

United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has tabled a resolution expressing concerns about the forced cremation policy for coronavirus victims in Sri Lanka. The government does not allow Muslims and Christians to be buried and they must all be cremated. Because it fears the buried victims will contaminate the soil with the virus. There is no scientific basis for it. The UNHRC says this policy goes against the belief of minorities. 11 per cent of Sri Lankan population follows Islam. They have been demanding an end to forced cremations. The resolution also calls upon Colombo to hold human rights abusers to account. At least 25 military officers accused of war crimes have been pardoned by the Rajapaksa government. The resolution urges Sri Lanka to bring them to justice. The Lankan govt has called the resolution politically motivated and Sri Lanka, a victim of an unprecedented propaganda campaign. Meanwhile, in probe of Easter Bombings, where Sri Lanka witnessed one of the worst terror attacks in recent history on an easter Sunday around 21 months ago. Suicide bombers killed at least 253 people and some 500 others were injured. There were at least six coordinated blasts, targeting churches and top-end hotels, mostly in Colombo. A presidential commission investigated the attacks and now, the report has come out. There are a total of 10 conclusions. Two of them have raised eyebrows. First, the commission has recommended criminal charges against the former President of Sri Lanka Maithripala Sirisena. It says there's evidence to prove criminal liability on his part and the second targets the former prime minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe. It accuses him of a lax approach towards Islamic extremism. It says this was one of the primary reasons for the failure of the security apparatus.

UNHRC resolution accuses Sri Lanka of human rights violations

The United States is seeking to return to the UN Human Rights Council, three years after former president Donald Trump's administration withdrew.

"I'm pleased to announce the United States will seek election to the Human Rights Council for the 2022-24 term," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told the council in a video message. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-do-chronic-violators-of-human-rights-like-china-pak-want-a-seat-at-the-unhrc-335063">Also read: Why do chronic violators of human rights like China &amp; Pak want a seat at the UNHRC?</a>

"We humbly ask for the support of all UN member states in our bid to return to a seat in this body."

The United States announced earlier this month that it would re-engage with the 47-member council after Trump's administration pulled the country out in June 2018.

Blinken also complained about its "unrelenting bias" against Israel and the "hypocrisy" of allowing rights-abusing nations a seat at the table.&nbsp;

The US departure left a void that China and others have been eager to fill at the council.

While Washington has vowed to begin active participation in the council's activities immediately, it could not automatically regain the membership it walked away from three years ago.

Elections for the next term will be held towards the end of this year.

While the US under new President Joe Biden is eager to return to the fold of the council, Blinken stressed that the country still agrees with some of the criticisms lobbed by the previous administration.

"Institutions are not perfect," he said, adding, "as the United States reengages, we urge the Human Rights Council to look at how it conducts its business. That includes its disproportionate focus on Israel."

The United States has long complained that prominent rights abusers are given seats on the council.

Currently, the membership includes China, Russia, and Venezuela, along with Cuba, Cameroon, Eritrea and the Philippines.

"Those with the worst human rights records should not be members of this council," Blinken said.

The council, set up in 2006, has a stand-alone item on the Palestinian territories on its agenda every session - the only issue with such treatment - which both Democratic and Republican administrations have opposed.

It routinely adopts resolutions condemning alleged violations by Israel in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

Blinken reiterated the US call on Russia to release opposition figure Alexei Navalny as well as hundreds of others detained during protests.

He said Washington would denounce atrocities in Xinjiang, China's western region where activists and UN experts say 1 million Muslim Uighurs are held in camps. And he acknowledged rights issues at home, saying the United States would work to combat both systemic racism and economic injustice.

(with inputs from agencies)

The United States is seeking to return to the UN Human Rights Council, three years after former president Donald Trump's administration withdrew. "I'm pleased to announce the United States will seek election to the Human Rights Council for the 2022-24 term," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told the council in a video message.

The United States is seeking to return to the UN Human Rights Council, three years after former president Donald Trump's administration withdrew. "I'm pleased to announce the United States will seek election to the Human Rights Council for the 2022-24 term," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told the council in a video message. Also read: Why do chronic violators of human rights like China & Pak want a seat at the UNHRC? "We humbly ask for the support of all UN member states in our bid to return to a seat in this body." The United States announced earlier this month that it would re-engage with the 47-member council after Trump's administration pulled the country out in June 2018. Blinken also complained about its "unrelenting bias" against Israel and the "hypocrisy" of allowing rights-abusing nations a seat at the table. The US departure left a void that China and others have been eager to fill at the council. While Washington has vowed to begin active participation in the council's activities immediately, it could not automatically regain the membership it walked away from three years ago. Elections for the next term will be held towards the end of this year. While the US under new President Joe Biden is eager to return to the fold of the council, Blinken stressed that the country still agrees with some of the criticisms lobbed by the previous administration. "Institutions are not perfect," he said, adding, "as the United States reengages, we urge the Human Rights Council to look at how it conducts its business. That includes its disproportionate focus on Israel." The United States has long complained that prominent rights abusers are given seats on the council. Currently, the membership includes China, Russia, and Venezuela, along with Cuba, Cameroon, Eritrea and the Philippines. "Those with the worst human rights records should not be members of this council," Blinken said. The council, set up in 2006, has a stand-alone item on the Palestinian territories on its agenda every session - the only issue with such treatment - which both Democratic and Republican administrations have opposed. It routinely adopts resolutions condemning alleged violations by Israel in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. Blinken reiterated the US call on Russia to release opposition figure Alexei Navalny as well as hundreds of others detained during protests. He said Washington would denounce atrocities in Xinjiang, China's western region where activists and UN experts say 1 million Muslim Uighurs are held in camps. And he acknowledged rights issues at home, saying the United States would work to combat both systemic racism and economic injustice. (with inputs from agencies)

US aims to return to UN Human Rights Council, Secretary of State confirms

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday said that China's treatment of ethnic minorities in Xinjiang and Tibet is a "shining example" of the progress made by the country in terms of human rights progress.

According to AFP, at least one million Uighurs, along with other Muslim minorities remain in camps that are situated in the northwest region of Xinjiang. China is also accused of forcibly sterilising women, and forced labour among many things.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-story-of-xinjiang-361421/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After initial reports about the camps became public, Beijing denied any such thing existed. Soon after, it defended the camps, claiming that these were "vocational training centres" that were aimed at curbing Islamic extremism in the region.

"Places inhabited by ethnic minorities, such as Xinjiang and Tibet, have stood out as shining examples of China's human rights progress," Wang said in Beijing while talking at a forum on US-China relations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/britain-wants-un-to-have-urgent-access-to-uighur-camps-in-chinas-xinjiang-365440" hreflang="en">Britain wants UN to have 'urgent' access to Uighur camps in China's Xinjiang</a> 
 
Wang is expected to address the UN's Human Rights Council session later on Monday. Other countries have criticised China's incarceration of minorities in Xinjiang. According to a spokesman for the Chinese foreign ministry, Wang will "share China's philosophy, practice and experience in protecting human rights" during his speech.

Britain on Monday will call on United Nations to be granted access to the Xinjiang region of China, where excesses against Uighur Muslims have been reported.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/chinas-oppression-of-muslims-in-xinjiang-explained-358392" hreflang="en">China's oppression of Muslims in Xinjiang, explained</a>

On January 19, 2021, the United States government said that China was committing genocide in Xinjiang, which former Secretary of State Pompeo described as "the systematic attempt to destroy Uighurs by the Chinese-party state".

China, on the other hand, claims that Muslim minorities in the region enjoy a high quality of life.

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday said that China's treatment of ethnic minorities in Xinjiang and Tibet is a "shining example" of the progress made by the country in terms of human rights progress.

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday said that China's treatment of ethnic minorities in Xinjiang and Tibet is a "shining example" of the progress made by the country in terms of human rights progress. According to AFP, at least one million Uighurs, along with other Muslim minorities remain in camps that are situated in the northwest region of Xinjiang. China is also accused of forcibly sterilising women, and forced labour among many things. After initial reports about the camps became public, Beijing denied any such thing existed. Soon after, it defended the camps, claiming that these were "vocational training centres" that were aimed at curbing Islamic extremism in the region. "Places inhabited by ethnic minorities, such as Xinjiang and Tibet, have stood out as shining examples of China's human rights progress," Wang said in Beijing while talking at a forum on US-China relations. Also read: Britain wants UN to have 'urgent' access to Uighur camps in China's Xinjiang Wang is expected to address the UN's Human Rights Council session later on Monday. Other countries have criticised China's incarceration of minorities in Xinjiang. According to a spokesman for the Chinese foreign ministry, Wang will "share China's philosophy, practice and experience in protecting human rights" during his speech. Britain on Monday will call on United Nations to be granted access to the Xinjiang region of China, where excesses against Uighur Muslims have been reported. Also read: China's oppression of Muslims in Xinjiang, explained On January 19, 2021, the United States government said that China was committing genocide in Xinjiang, which former Secretary of State Pompeo described as "the systematic attempt to destroy Uighurs by the Chinese-party state". China, on the other hand, claims that Muslim minorities in the region enjoy a high quality of life.

Xinjiang, Tibet 'shining examples' of our human rights progress: China

Sri Lanka is now officially sought India's support ahead of next week UNHRC session on its human rights and accountability record.

Sri Lanka turns to India for support

Bangladesh authorities have sent a fourth group of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar to a newly developed island in the Bay of Bengal on Monday.&nbsp;

The roughly 2,000 Rohingya, who had been living in the sprawling refugee camps of Cox's Bazar, were sent to Bhasan Char, an island specifically developed to accommodate 100,000 of the one million Rohingya, who have fled from neighbouring Myanmar, M. Mozammel Haque, a commander of the Bangladesh navy, told reporters.&nbsp;

With Monday's group, more than 7,000 refugees have moved to the island since the process started in December.&nbsp;

The government has said the arrangement is good for the refugees and the island is designed to offer better living conditions. The government has insisted that refugees moving to the island have done so voluntarily.&nbsp;

More than one million Rohingya have fled waves of violent persecution in their native Myanmar and are currently living in overcrowded, squalid refugee camps in Cox's Bazar district.&nbsp;

Bangladesh has said that ultimately it is up to Myanmar to take the refugees back and has called on the international community to put pressure on Myanmar's government to ensure their safe return.&nbsp;

The latest relocation follows a February 1 coup in Myanmar that put the military firmly back in control. The refugees living in Bangladeshi camps say they are now even more fearful to go back to Myanmar.&nbsp;

The island surfaced only 20 years ago and was not previously inhabited. It was regularly submerged by monsoon rains but now has flood protection embankments, houses, hospitals and mosques built at a cost of more than $112 million by the Bangladesh navy.&nbsp;

The government said the new development schemes in the island have made the island safe for living.

Bangladesh authorities have sent a fourth group of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar to a newly developed island in the Bay of Bengal on Monday. The roughly 2,000 Rohingya, who had been living in the sprawling refugee camps of Cox's Bazar, were sent to Bhasan Char, an island specifically developed to accommodate 100,000 of the one million Rohingya, who have fled from neighbouring Myanmar, M.

Bangladesh authorities have sent a fourth group of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar to a newly developed island in the Bay of Bengal on Monday. The roughly 2,000 Rohingya, who had been living in the sprawling refugee camps of Cox's Bazar, were sent to Bhasan Char, an island specifically developed to accommodate 100,000 of the one million Rohingya, who have fled from neighbouring Myanmar, M. Mozammel Haque, a commander of the Bangladesh navy, told reporters. With Monday's group, more than 7,000 refugees have moved to the island since the process started in December. The government has said the arrangement is good for the refugees and the island is designed to offer better living conditions. The government has insisted that refugees moving to the island have done so voluntarily. More than one million Rohingya have fled waves of violent persecution in their native Myanmar and are currently living in overcrowded, squalid refugee camps in Cox's Bazar district. Bangladesh has said that ultimately it is up to Myanmar to take the refugees back and has called on the international community to put pressure on Myanmar's government to ensure their safe return. The latest relocation follows a February 1 coup in Myanmar that put the military firmly back in control. The refugees living in Bangladeshi camps say they are now even more fearful to go back to Myanmar. The island surfaced only 20 years ago and was not previously inhabited. It was regularly submerged by monsoon rains but now has flood protection embankments, houses, hospitals and mosques built at a cost of more than $112 million by the Bangladesh navy. The government said the new development schemes in the island have made the island safe for living.

Bangladesh sends fourth batch of Rohingya refugees to new island

The British government has trained armies of 15 countries that have poor human rights record and an anti-arms trade organisation has called for a probe to determine UK military's role to understand whether this was done deliberately to perpetrate human rights violations.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-a-french-military-operation-kill-innocent-civilians-355242/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Ministry of Defence in a freedom of information reply to the Guardian said that in 2018/19 and 2019/20, the military trained on UK's soil 250 countries, around two-thirds of the world's nations, including those with dismal human rights records.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-erdogan-positions-powerful-turkish-military-as-backbone-of-regional-strategy-354438">Opinion: Erdogan positions powerful Turkish military as backbone of regional strategy</a>

Some of these countries that score low on human rights include Bahrain, China, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Sudan and Zimbabwe.&nbsp;

However, the defence ministry declined to provide information about the training provided by the UK military to other nations overseas.&nbsp;

Each year, the British government comes out with an annual list of nations that it has human rights concerns about. And out of the 30 countries listed in the first half of 2020, military training to 15 have been provided, including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt and Iraq.&nbsp;

The UK also has a list of 20 countries that are under an arms embargo and eight countries from this group had been trained by them, including Iraq, Somalia, Sudan and Afghanistan.

The British government has trained armies of 15 countries that have poor human rights record and an anti-arms trade organisation has called for a probe to determine UK military's role to understand whether this was done deliberately to perpetrate human rights violations.

The British government has trained armies of 15 countries that have poor human rights record and an anti-arms trade organisation has called for a probe to determine UK military's role to understand whether this was done deliberately to perpetrate human rights violations. Watch | The Ministry of Defence in a freedom of information reply to the Guardian said that in 2018/19 and 2019/20, the military trained on UK's soil 250 countries, around two-thirds of the world's nations, including those with dismal human rights records. Also read | Opinion: Erdogan positions powerful Turkish military as backbone of regional strategy Some of these countries that score low on human rights include Bahrain, China, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Sudan and Zimbabwe. However, the defence ministry declined to provide information about the training provided by the UK military to other nations overseas. Each year, the British government comes out with an annual list of nations that it has human rights concerns about. And out of the 30 countries listed in the first half of 2020, military training to 15 have been provided, including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt and Iraq. The UK also has a list of 20 countries that are under an arms embargo and eight countries from this group had been trained by them, including Iraq, Somalia, Sudan and Afghanistan.

UK military trained 15 countries with poor human rights records

Sri Lanka's minority Tamil political parties and civil society groups have urged the UN Human Rights Council to establish an international independent investigatory mechanism with a strict time frame to ensure accountability from the island nation on the alleged human rights abuses during the nearly three-decades-long civil war.

In a letter dated January 15 addressed to the missions of the 47 member states of the UNHRC, they called on to establish an evidence-gathering mechanism such as the one on Syria with a strict one-year time frame.

They urged for a new resolution on Sri Lanka's accountability.

Sri Lanka faced three consecutive UNHRC resolutions since 2013 which called for an independent international investigation into alleged war crimes committed by both government troops and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) during the final phase of the civil war back in 2009.

The Tamil and civil society groups in the letter recalled that the then UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in 2009 after his tour to Sri Lanka's battle zones had said that the Sri Lankan government had agreed to investigate violations of rights and international humanitarian law.

The groups say that UNHRC is due to meet next month and in March to evaluate Sri Lanka's commitments made.

They called for a fresh resolution, saying Sri Lanka has failed and that resolution must stipulate that the UN Security Council must take up the matter and take suitable action through the International Criminal Court and an effective international accountability mechanism to inquire into Sri Lanka's alleged abuses of human rights.

The current government had already withdrawn from the resolution co-sponsored by Sri Lanka in 2015, 2017 and 2019 under the previous government.

According to the UN figures, up to 40,000 civilians were killed by the security forces during Mahinda Rajapaksa's regime that brought an end to nearly three-decades-long civil war in Sri Lanka with the defeat of LTTE in 2009.

Government troops and the Tamil Tiger rebels are both accused of war crimes.

Sri Lanka's minority Tamil political parties and civil society groups have urged the UN Human Rights Council to establish an international independent investigatory mechanism with a strict time frame to ensure accountability from the island nation on the alleged human rights abuses during the nearly three-decades-long civil war.

Sri Lanka's minority Tamil political parties and civil society groups have urged the UN Human Rights Council to establish an international independent investigatory mechanism with a strict time frame to ensure accountability from the island nation on the alleged human rights abuses during the nearly three-decades-long civil war. In a letter dated January 15 addressed to the missions of the 47 member states of the UNHRC, they called on to establish an evidence-gathering mechanism such as the one on Syria with a strict one-year time frame. They urged for a new resolution on Sri Lanka's accountability. Sri Lanka faced three consecutive UNHRC resolutions since 2013 which called for an independent international investigation into alleged war crimes committed by both government troops and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) during the final phase of the civil war back in 2009. The Tamil and civil society groups in the letter recalled that the then UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in 2009 after his tour to Sri Lanka's battle zones had said that the Sri Lankan government had agreed to investigate violations of rights and international humanitarian law. The groups say that UNHRC is due to meet next month and in March to evaluate Sri Lanka's commitments made. They called for a fresh resolution, saying Sri Lanka has failed and that resolution must stipulate that the UN Security Council must take up the matter and take suitable action through the International Criminal Court and an effective international accountability mechanism to inquire into Sri Lanka's alleged abuses of human rights. The current government had already withdrawn from the resolution co-sponsored by Sri Lanka in 2015, 2017 and 2019 under the previous government. According to the UN figures, up to 40,000 civilians were killed by the security forces during Mahinda Rajapaksa's regime that brought an end to nearly three-decades-long civil war in Sri Lanka with the defeat of LTTE in 2009. Government troops and the Tamil Tiger rebels are both accused of war crimes.

Sri Lanka Tamils appeal to UNHRC for rights accountability

China had an "appalling year" in terms of human rights in 2020, said Human Rights Watch on Wednesday. 
 
The group took into account the crackdown on free speech in Hong Kong with new security laws, the persecution of Uighur Muslims, and attempts at silencing people that were vigorously reporting on the pandemic.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-condemn-chinese-abuse-against-uighur-minority-356359/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Just last week, a court in China sentenced a citizen-journalist to four years in jail after he reported from Wuhan, the original epicentre of the virus where it initially began. Many others who attempted to report on the pandemic have since then disappeared.

"To crack down on whistleblowers and citizen-journalists at this particular moment ... helps highlight to the rest of the world what the consequences of violations inside China can be," Sophie Richardson, Human Rights Watch (HRW) for China claimed after releasing its yearly report.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-denies-forceful-use-of-birth-control-measures-on-uighur-women-355991" hreflang="en">China denies forceful use of birth control measures on Uighur women</a> 
 
Earlier, HRW's Executive Director Kenneth Roth had told Reuters that China is the biggest threat to human rights around the world. Roth added that President Xi Jinping had "embarked on the most intense repression" in China since 1989 when the Tiananmen Square crackdown took place.

As part of the national security law which was introduced in Hong Kong, 53 pro-democracy activists have been arrested in raids over the last week.&nbsp;

In addition, Beijing stands accused of the persecution and forced labour of Uighurs in the western region of Xinjiang.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/twitter-removes-chinese-embassys-post-claiming-uighur-women-not-forcefully-sterilised-355755" hreflang="en">Twitter removes Chinese embassy's post claiming Uighur women not forcefully sterilised</a>

Richardson noted how Uighurs' plight remains largely ignored on the global stage, and how it was similar to what Rohingya Muslims were undergoing in Myanmar. 
 
She added how the European Union's investment pact with China remains problematic, after a year of China "publicly shredding" its commitments in terms of human rights. 
 
"Putting a dent in the Chinese government's sense of impunity for serious human rights violations is a real priority, we think, for governments and for institutions like the UN," she said, while adding that criticism against China is now growing in the international community.

China had an "appalling year" in terms of human rights in 2020, said Human Rights Watch on Wednesday. The group took into account the crackdown on free speech in Hong Kong with new security laws, the persecution of Uighur Muslims, and attempts at silencing people that were vigorously reporting on the pandemic.

China had an "appalling year" in terms of human rights in 2020, said Human Rights Watch on Wednesday. The group took into account the crackdown on free speech in Hong Kong with new security laws, the persecution of Uighur Muslims, and attempts at silencing people that were vigorously reporting on the pandemic. Just last week, a court in China sentenced a citizen-journalist to four years in jail after he reported from Wuhan, the original epicentre of the virus where it initially began. Many others who attempted to report on the pandemic have since then disappeared. "To crack down on whistleblowers and citizen-journalists at this particular moment ... helps highlight to the rest of the world what the consequences of violations inside China can be," Sophie Richardson, Human Rights Watch (HRW) for China claimed after releasing its yearly report. Also read: China denies forceful use of birth control measures on Uighur women Earlier, HRW's Executive Director Kenneth Roth had told Reuters that China is the biggest threat to human rights around the world. Roth added that President Xi Jinping had "embarked on the most intense repression" in China since 1989 when the Tiananmen Square crackdown took place. As part of the national security law which was introduced in Hong Kong, 53 pro-democracy activists have been arrested in raids over the last week. In addition, Beijing stands accused of the persecution and forced labour of Uighurs in the western region of Xinjiang. Also read: Twitter removes Chinese embassy's post claiming Uighur women not forcefully sterilised Richardson noted how Uighurs' plight remains largely ignored on the global stage, and how it was similar to what Rohingya Muslims were undergoing in Myanmar. She added how the European Union's investment pact with China remains problematic, after a year of China "publicly shredding" its commitments in terms of human rights. "Putting a dent in the Chinese government's sense of impunity for serious human rights violations is a real priority, we think, for governments and for institutions like the UN," she said, while adding that criticism against China is now growing in the international community.

For China, 2020 was an 'appalling year' of violations: Human Rights Watch

The Trump administration has significantly invested in its relationship with India over the past four years, seeing the country as a crucial partner in counterbalancing the rise of China.

Military cooperation and a personal friendship between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India — both domineering nationalists — have pushed New Delhi and Washington closer.

Now, as President-elect Joe Biden is set to move into the White House, U.S. diplomats, Indian officials and security experts are resetting their expectations for relations between the world’s two largest democracies.

On one hand, experts said, Biden’s administration will most likely pay more attention to India’s contentious domestic developments, where Modi’s right-wing party has been steadily consolidating power and becoming overtly hostile toward Muslim minorities. Trump has largely turned a blind eye.

Others believe that the United States cannot afford to drastically alter its policy toward New Delhi because the United States needs its help to counter China and increasingly values India as a military and trade partner.

“The real opening between the United States and India began under President Clinton, it accelerated under President Bush, it continued under President Obama, and it’s accelerating again under our president, President Trump,” Stephen Biegun, the deputy secretary of state, said in October. “One of the constants in U.S.-India relations has been that every presidential administration here in the United States has left the relationship in even better shape than the one it inherited.”

Most experts agree that China will be the driving force behind how India’s relationship with Washington morphs in a Biden administration.

“We need India for various reasons,” said Ashley J. Tellis, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Washington. “Most important of which is balancing Chinese power in Asia.”

This year, 20 Indian soldiers were killed in the worst border clash between India and China in decades. As relations between New Delhi and Beijing soured, India strengthened its commitment to a multilateral partnership with the United States, India, Japan and Australia — known as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or Quad.

China has castigated this forum as an Asian version of NATO, one that is directly aimed at counterbalancing its interests. India, leery of formal alliances and upsetting trade relations with Beijing, was initially hesitant to fully engage.

Biden, who once spoke optimistically of China’s emergence “as a great power,” has become increasingly tough on Beijing, and some analysts said his administration would most likely use the Quad as a way to ensure that the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific region does not tilt too far toward China.

“They’ll keep the Quad going,” said Richard Fontaine, chief executive of the Center for a New American Security, adding that the partnership had gone from largely being considered “a meeting in search of an agenda to something real that is doing things.”

But some Indian officials are concerned that the next administration will not be as tough on China as the current one and that Biden will adopt a more nuanced and less favorable position toward India, analysts said.

“If he’s seen as pursuing a softer approach with China, it will make New Delhi have second thoughts about a soft alliance,” said Brahma Chellaney, a professor of strategic studies at the Center for Policy Research, a think tank in New Delhi.

Biden’s administration will inherit a growing military relationship with India. In recent months, the United States and India have shared more intelligence and conducted more coordinated military training exercises. The military cooperation is closest among the navies of the two countries; Kenneth J. Braithwaite, the Navy secretary, visited India last week.

The United States has been trying to increase arms sales to India, but the country's history of buying weapons from nations such as France, Israel and Russia has complicated that effort. American officials are concerned about providing equipment to India if there is a risk that members of the Russian military or other foreign agents would then have access. American and Indian officials signed an agreement to share real-time geographical data through satellite images when Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visited India in October.

Despite the warming ties, though, Indian officials also worry that Biden might be less critical of Pakistan, the country's archrival, than Trump has been. Biden may even reach out to Islamabad for support as the United States draws down troops in Afghanistan. Early in his presidency, Trump suspended military aid to Pakistan, accusing it of supporting terrorists and giving the United States “nothing but lies and deceit.”

In contrast, Trump has said little about the increasing hostility toward Muslims in India and the divisive politics of Modi’s Hindu nationalist party. The Trump administration has kept largely quiet about Modi’s crackdown on Kashmir last year and the passage of a new, blatantly anti-Muslim citizenship law. And Modi’s recent pro-market agricultural policies have fueled a farmer rebellion that has snarled daily life in the capital and stirred up more anti-government feeling.

Both Biden — who is considered a strong friend of India since his days as a senator when he worked to approve the country’s landmark civil nuclear agreement in 2008 — and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris are likely to be more critical of India’s human rights record, both in private and in public, experts said.

Harris, whose mother was Indian and who has remained close to that side of her family, has already indicated that she is concerned about Kashmir, a predominantly Muslim area that has long been a flashpoint between India and Pakistan.

Biden’s campaign documents specifically called on the Indian government to “take all necessary steps to restore rights for all the people” in Kashmir. His campaign added that he was also “disappointed” in Modi’s citizenship law.

Some American activists want the Biden administration to go even further and warn Indian officials that discontent over some of its current policies could imperil how strong a partner India might be for the United States.

“Human rights first is equally important,” said Simran Noor, chairwoman of South Asian Americans Leading Together, an advocacy group in the United States. “The impacts of not addressing it now could lead to a lot worse conditions in the future.”

Another challenging issue is visas. Trump this year suspended H-1B visas for high-skilled workers, a major setback for U.S. technology companies, which employ many Indians, and the wider Indian diaspora in the United States.

The two countries have also struggled to sign a comprehensive trade agreement, with talks hung up over imports of U.S. dairy products and medical devices such as coronary stents. After two decades of India loosening its trade restrictions, Western officials say the country has been tightening them over the past two years, embracing Modi’s push for a “self-reliant India.”

And many of Biden’s priorities — including climate change — will most likely require India’s cooperation, ensuring that New Delhi remains front of mind for Biden’s chief diplomats.

“There is no relationship today between any two countries that is as important as the relationship between the U.S. and India,” said Nisha D. Biswal, President Barack Obama’s assistant secretary of state for South and Central Asian affairs. “Neither of us can go it alone.”

The Trump administration has significantly invested in its relationship with India over the past four years, seeing the country as a crucial partner in counterbalancing the rise of China.

The Trump administration has significantly invested in its relationship with India over the past four years, seeing the country as a crucial partner in counterbalancing the rise of China. Military cooperation and a personal friendship between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India — both domineering nationalists — have pushed New Delhi and Washington closer. Now, as President-elect Joe Biden is set to move into the White House, U.S. diplomats, Indian officials and security experts are resetting their expectations for relations between the world’s two largest democracies. On one hand, experts said, Biden’s administration will most likely pay more attention to India’s contentious domestic developments, where Modi’s right-wing party has been steadily consolidating power and becoming overtly hostile toward Muslim minorities. Trump has largely turned a blind eye. Others believe that the United States cannot afford to drastically alter its policy toward New Delhi because the United States needs its help to counter China and increasingly values India as a military and trade partner. “The real opening between the United States and India began under President Clinton, it accelerated under President Bush, it continued under President Obama, and it’s accelerating again under our president, President Trump,” Stephen Biegun, the deputy secretary of state, said in October. “One of the constants in U.S.-India relations has been that every presidential administration here in the United States has left the relationship in even better shape than the one it inherited.” Most experts agree that China will be the driving force behind how India’s relationship with Washington morphs in a Biden administration. “We need India for various reasons,” said Ashley J. Tellis, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Washington. “Most important of which is balancing Chinese power in Asia.” This year, 20 Indian soldiers were killed in the worst border clash between India and China in decades. As relations between New Delhi and Beijing soured, India strengthened its commitment to a multilateral partnership with the United States, India, Japan and Australia — known as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or Quad. China has castigated this forum as an Asian version of NATO, one that is directly aimed at counterbalancing its interests. India, leery of formal alliances and upsetting trade relations with Beijing, was initially hesitant to fully engage. Biden, who once spoke optimistically of China’s emergence “as a great power,” has become increasingly tough on Beijing, and some analysts said his administration would most likely use the Quad as a way to ensure that the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific region does not tilt too far toward China. “They’ll keep the Quad going,” said Richard Fontaine, chief executive of the Center for a New American Security, adding that the partnership had gone from largely being considered “a meeting in search of an agenda to something real that is doing things.” But some Indian officials are concerned that the next administration will not be as tough on China as the current one and that Biden will adopt a more nuanced and less favorable position toward India, analysts said. “If he’s seen as pursuing a softer approach with China, it will make New Delhi have second thoughts about a soft alliance,” said Brahma Chellaney, a professor of strategic studies at the Center for Policy Research, a think tank in New Delhi. Biden’s administration will inherit a growing military relationship with India. In recent months, the United States and India have shared more intelligence and conducted more coordinated military training exercises. The military cooperation is closest among the navies of the two countries; Kenneth J. Braithwaite, the Navy secretary, visited India last week. The United States has been trying to increase arms sales to India, but the country's history of buying weapons from nations such as France, Israel and Russia has complicated that effort. American officials are concerned about providing equipment to India if there is a risk that members of the Russian military or other foreign agents would then have access. American and Indian officials signed an agreement to share real-time geographical data through satellite images when Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visited India in October. Despite the warming ties, though, Indian officials also worry that Biden might be less critical of Pakistan, the country's archrival, than Trump has been. Biden may even reach out to Islamabad for support as the United States draws down troops in Afghanistan. Early in his presidency, Trump suspended military aid to Pakistan, accusing it of supporting terrorists and giving the United States “nothing but lies and deceit.” In contrast, Trump has said little about the increasing hostility toward Muslims in India and the divisive politics of Modi’s Hindu nationalist party. The Trump administration has kept largely quiet about Modi’s crackdown on Kashmir last year and the passage of a new, blatantly anti-Muslim citizenship law. And Modi’s recent pro-market agricultural policies have fueled a farmer rebellion that has snarled daily life in the capital and stirred up more anti-government feeling. Both Biden — who is considered a strong friend of India since his days as a senator when he worked to approve the country’s landmark civil nuclear agreement in 2008 — and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris are likely to be more critical of India’s human rights record, both in private and in public, experts said. Harris, whose mother was Indian and who has remained close to that side of her family, has already indicated that she is concerned about Kashmir, a predominantly Muslim area that has long been a flashpoint between India and Pakistan. Biden’s campaign documents specifically called on the Indian government to “take all necessary steps to restore rights for all the people” in Kashmir. His campaign added that he was also “disappointed” in Modi’s citizenship law. Some American activists want the Biden administration to go even further and warn Indian officials that discontent over some of its current policies could imperil how strong a partner India might be for the United States. “Human rights first is equally important,” said Simran Noor, chairwoman of South Asian Americans Leading Together, an advocacy group in the United States. “The impacts of not addressing it now could lead to a lot worse conditions in the future.” Another challenging issue is visas. Trump this year suspended H-1B visas for high-skilled workers, a major setback for U.S. technology companies, which employ many Indians, and the wider Indian diaspora in the United States. The two countries have also struggled to sign a comprehensive trade agreement, with talks hung up over imports of U.S. dairy products and medical devices such as coronary stents. After two decades of India loosening its trade restrictions, Western officials say the country has been tightening them over the past two years, embracing Modi’s push for a “self-reliant India.” And many of Biden’s priorities — including climate change — will most likely require India’s cooperation, ensuring that New Delhi remains front of mind for Biden’s chief diplomats. “There is no relationship today between any two countries that is as important as the relationship between the U.S. and India,” said Nisha D. Biswal, President Barack Obama’s assistant secretary of state for South and Central Asian affairs. “Neither of us can go it alone.”

Biden expected to expand US-India relationship while stressing Human Rights

Human Rights Watch accused Egypt Thursday of imposing punitive conditions on hundreds of inmates at one of its most notorious prisons in collective punishment for a foiled September escape attempt.

The New York-based watchdog said evidence including a leaked video and a smuggled letter showed authorities had deliberately exacerbated already poor conditions at Cairo's Scorpion Prison, where many political prisoners are held.&nbsp;

"Egyptian authorities are apparently imposing collective punishment on hundreds of inmates in Scorpion Prison, " said&nbsp;HRW's deputy Middle East and North Africa director, Joe Stork.

The interior ministry has said that three policemen were killed in September's abortive jail break in which four death row inmates were shot dead.

HRW said the new measures imposed since the escape attempt almost completely "deprive inmates of adequate ventilation, electricity, and hot water".

"Because of the absence of sufficient natural light... the lack of humane sleeping and sanitation arrangements... as well as inadequate floor space, artificial lighting and proper ventilation, the Scorpion Prison inherently violates the&nbsp;basic rights&nbsp;of prisoners," it said.

The prison houses Islamist leaders and other high-profile dissidents. Since 2015, at least 14 inmates have died in its overcrowded cell blocks, human rights groups say.

Egypt holds some 60,000 detainees that human rights groups regard as political prisoners.

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who as army chief led the 2013 overthrow of elected Islamist president Mohamed Morsi, has overseen a crackdown on political dissent that has put tens of thousands behind bars.

Human Rights Watch accused Egypt Thursday of imposing punitive conditions on hundreds of inmates at one of its most notorious prisons in collective punishment for a foiled September escape attempt.

Human Rights Watch accused Egypt Thursday of imposing punitive conditions on hundreds of inmates at one of its most notorious prisons in collective punishment for a foiled September escape attempt. The New York-based watchdog said evidence including a leaked video and a smuggled letter showed authorities had deliberately exacerbated already poor conditions at Cairo's Scorpion Prison, where many political prisoners are held. "Egyptian authorities are apparently imposing collective punishment on hundreds of inmates in Scorpion Prison, " said HRW's deputy Middle East and North Africa director, Joe Stork. The interior ministry has said that three policemen were killed in September's abortive jail break in which four death row inmates were shot dead. HRW said the new measures imposed since the escape attempt almost completely "deprive inmates of adequate ventilation, electricity, and hot water". "Because of the absence of sufficient natural light... the lack of humane sleeping and sanitation arrangements... as well as inadequate floor space, artificial lighting and proper ventilation, the Scorpion Prison inherently violates the basic rights of prisoners," it said. The prison houses Islamist leaders and other high-profile dissidents. Since 2015, at least 14 inmates have died in its overcrowded cell blocks, human rights groups say. Egypt holds some 60,000 detainees that human rights groups regard as political prisoners. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who as army chief led the 2013 overthrow of elected Islamist president Mohamed Morsi, has overseen a crackdown on political dissent that has put tens of thousands behind bars.

HRW accuses Egypt of 'collective punishment' of inmates

Sports celebrities are used to receiving fan mail, but the Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton received a very unique fan letter from a young boy — a request to save his father.

An 11-year-old boy from Bahrain reached out to Lewis Hamilton to urge him to help him save his father who is facing a death penalty.&nbsp;Ahmed Ramadhan drew a picture of Hamilton's racecar and wrote, "Lewis, please save my father."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/verstappen-edges-bottas-in-abu-dhabi-practice-as-hamilton-makes-quiet-return-349107">Verstappen edges Bottas in Abu Dhabi practice as Hamilton makes quiet return</a>

Hamilton, during a press conference in the United Arab Emirates capital talked about receiving this letter. "I think the saddest thing for me was that there's a young man on death row and it's not clear ... and when his son writes me a letter it really hits home," he said.

He assured he will be getting in contact with the boy to sort out the matter as much as possible. "I think there's definitely work to be done in the background and I definitely won't let it go unnoticed,"&nbsp;the seven-time Formula 1 champion said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-set-to-be-awarded-knighthood-in-new-years-honours-list-344844">Lewis Hamilton set to be awarded knighthood in New Year's Honours List</a>

The 11-year-old said he is hoping his hero can save his father from getting caught in this system. "When I was drawing the car, I felt hope that it might save my father's life," the boy said.

Wishing his dad is released and returns back home soon, he continued, "I really hope Lewis Hamilton delivers my message so my dad can come back home."

Ahmed's father was arrested and sentenced to death by a top court of Bahrain on the charge of murdering a police officer in a bomb attack. Mohamed Ramadhan was sentenced along with&nbsp;Hussain Moosa. However, it was later alleged that the confessions from the two were extracted through extreme torture.

Talking about the case, Hamilton said he had been hoping to have a conversation in private with Bahrain's Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, but his infection had forced him to cancel the plans. "I'd hoped... to sit and address it with the crown prince, but I was bed-ridden for most of the week," he explained.

Sports celebrities are used to receiving fan mail, but the Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton received a very unique fan letter from a young boy — a request to save his father.

Sports celebrities are used to receiving fan mail, but the Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton received a very unique fan letter from a young boy — a request to save his father. An 11-year-old boy from Bahrain reached out to Lewis Hamilton to urge him to help him save his father who is facing a death penalty. Ahmed Ramadhan drew a picture of Hamilton's racecar and wrote, "Lewis, please save my father." Also read| Verstappen edges Bottas in Abu Dhabi practice as Hamilton makes quiet return Hamilton, during a press conference in the United Arab Emirates capital talked about receiving this letter. "I think the saddest thing for me was that there's a young man on death row and it's not clear ... and when his son writes me a letter it really hits home," he said. He assured he will be getting in contact with the boy to sort out the matter as much as possible. "I think there's definitely work to be done in the background and I definitely won't let it go unnoticed," the seven-time Formula 1 champion said. Also read| Lewis Hamilton set to be awarded knighthood in New Year's Honours List The 11-year-old said he is hoping his hero can save his father from getting caught in this system. "When I was drawing the car, I felt hope that it might save my father's life," the boy said. Wishing his dad is released and returns back home soon, he continued, "I really hope Lewis Hamilton delivers my message so my dad can come back home." Ahmed's father was arrested and sentenced to death by a top court of Bahrain on the charge of murdering a police officer in a bomb attack. Mohamed Ramadhan was sentenced along with Hussain Moosa. However, it was later alleged that the confessions from the two were extracted through extreme torture. Talking about the case, Hamilton said he had been hoping to have a conversation in private with Bahrain's Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, but his infection had forced him to cancel the plans. "I'd hoped... to sit and address it with the crown prince, but I was bed-ridden for most of the week," he explained.

'Lewis, please save my father': Bahraini child requests Hamilton to save his father from death penalty

Eight countries have denounced North Korea's human rights record after a closed-doors videoconference at the UN Security Council organised by Germany.

The list of countries includes the United States, France, Britain, Japan, Estonia, Belgium and the Dominican Republic.

"The situation of human rights in the DPRK is appalling and gets worse by the day," the eight said in a joint declaration read by German ambassador Christoph Heusgen, referring to North Korea by the initials of its formal name.

"Individuals in the DPRK are stripped of nearly all their human rights, their freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, association, movement, and religion or belief, among many others," the statement said.

"Media freedom is non-existent, neither is there any possibility of a political opposition to the regime's tight grip on its people," it added.

The joint declaration was particularly critical of North Korea's "long-standing system of political prison camps where hundreds of thousands of North Koreans, including children, have died as a consequence of torture, forced labor, summary executions, starvation, sexual and gender-based violence and other forms of inhumane treatment."

It added that "as we speak, 100,000 prisoners are being detained, suffering from the horrors of being maltreated and abused on a daily basis."

"The multiple and grave human rights violations women are subjected to by the hands of the State, in particular sexual and gender-based violence, are unimaginable. They must stop immediately," the eight states demanded.

They also called for the release of "abducted Japanese and South Korean citizens."

It concluded that "the dire, if not tragic situation of the North Korean population is due exclusively to the regime's cynical policies, putting nuclear weapons first and food for its people last."

Between 2014 and 2017, the UN Security Council held an annual public meeting on human rights violations in North Korea.

Since 2018, opposition by Russia, China and a small number of members of the council has prevented these public sessions.

Eight countries have denounced North Korea's human rights record after a closed-doors videoconference at the UN Security Council organised by Germany. The list of countries includes the United States, France, Britain, Japan, Estonia, Belgium and the Dominican Republic.

Eight countries have denounced North Korea's human rights record after a closed-doors videoconference at the UN Security Council organised by Germany. The list of countries includes the United States, France, Britain, Japan, Estonia, Belgium and the Dominican Republic. "The situation of human rights in the DPRK is appalling and gets worse by the day," the eight said in a joint declaration read by German ambassador Christoph Heusgen, referring to North Korea by the initials of its formal name. "Individuals in the DPRK are stripped of nearly all their human rights, their freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, association, movement, and religion or belief, among many others," the statement said. "Media freedom is non-existent, neither is there any possibility of a political opposition to the regime's tight grip on its people," it added. The joint declaration was particularly critical of North Korea's "long-standing system of political prison camps where hundreds of thousands of North Koreans, including children, have died as a consequence of torture, forced labor, summary executions, starvation, sexual and gender-based violence and other forms of inhumane treatment." It added that "as we speak, 100,000 prisoners are being detained, suffering from the horrors of being maltreated and abused on a daily basis." "The multiple and grave human rights violations women are subjected to by the hands of the State, in particular sexual and gender-based violence, are unimaginable. They must stop immediately," the eight states demanded. They also called for the release of "abducted Japanese and South Korean citizens." It concluded that "the dire, if not tragic situation of the North Korean population is due exclusively to the regime's cynical policies, putting nuclear weapons first and food for its people last." Between 2014 and 2017, the UN Security Council held an annual public meeting on human rights violations in North Korea. Since 2018, opposition by Russia, China and a small number of members of the council has prevented these public sessions.

Eight countries, including US, denounce human rights record in North Korea

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Sunday began a three-day state visit to France, with activists warning Paris not to turn a blind eye to Cairo's rights record with a red carpet welcome.

The centrepiece of the visit will be talks with President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace on Monday where the French leader is expected to seek to cement the strong ties between Cairo and Paris.

Sisi arrived at Paris Orly airport, the Egyptian presidency said in its Facebook page. He was due later Sunday to meet French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egyptian-rights-group-head-hopes-release-will-help-other-prisoners-347795">Egyptian rights group head hopes release will help other prisoners</a>

Egypt and France have enjoyed an increasingly close relationship under the secular rule of former army general Sisi, with common interests in the Middle East and a shared suspicion of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

No major deals are expected to be signed during the trip but Egypt is a major weapons client of French companies, in the past buying fighter jets and warships.

The situation in Libya, where efforts are underway to agree a lasting peace after years of conflict, is also expected to feature prominently.

But France's close relationship with Egypt at a time when Cairo stands accused of serial human rights violations has concerned activists, who want Macron to make the issue central to the discussions.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-hope-france-will-get-rid-of-macron-says-turkey-president-erdogan-347552">I hope France will get rid of Macron, says Turkey President Erdogan</a>

A statement by a dozen rights groups ahead of the talks said France had "long indulged President al-Sisi's brutal repression of any form of dissent."

"We are amazed that France is rolling out the red carpet for a dictator when there are more than 60,000 prisoners of conscience today in Egypt," Antoine Madelin, international advocacy director of the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), told AFP.

Concern over Sisi's visit to Paris was amplified when three Egyptian activists were arrested last month following a meeting with foreign ambassadors.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-calls-abraham-accords-an-opportunity-for-palestinians-347953" hreflang="en">Israel calls Abraham Accords an 'opportunity' for Palestinians</a>

However, following an international campaign backed by celebrities all three campaigners from the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights have been freed.

A French presidential source described this as a positive sign and insisted that rights would be raised at the talks.

The Egyptian presidency in a statement cited Sisi's spokesman as saying "the visit reflects both countries' keenness to strengthen the strategic relations between them in the coming period."

The spokesman said Sisi would present "Egypt's vision" regarding crises in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East and the talks would also look at strengthening investment.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Sunday began a three-day state visit to France, with activists warning Paris not to turn a blind eye to Cairo's rights record with a red carpet welcome.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Sunday began a three-day state visit to France, with activists warning Paris not to turn a blind eye to Cairo's rights record with a red carpet welcome. The centrepiece of the visit will be talks with President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace on Monday where the French leader is expected to seek to cement the strong ties between Cairo and Paris. Sisi arrived at Paris Orly airport, the Egyptian presidency said in its Facebook page. He was due later Sunday to meet French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian. Also read| Egyptian rights group head hopes release will help other prisoners Egypt and France have enjoyed an increasingly close relationship under the secular rule of former army general Sisi, with common interests in the Middle East and a shared suspicion of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. No major deals are expected to be signed during the trip but Egypt is a major weapons client of French companies, in the past buying fighter jets and warships. The situation in Libya, where efforts are underway to agree a lasting peace after years of conflict, is also expected to feature prominently. But France's close relationship with Egypt at a time when Cairo stands accused of serial human rights violations has concerned activists, who want Macron to make the issue central to the discussions. Also read| I hope France will get rid of Macron, says Turkey President Erdogan A statement by a dozen rights groups ahead of the talks said France had "long indulged President al-Sisi's brutal repression of any form of dissent." "We are amazed that France is rolling out the red carpet for a dictator when there are more than 60,000 prisoners of conscience today in Egypt," Antoine Madelin, international advocacy director of the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), told AFP. Concern over Sisi's visit to Paris was amplified when three Egyptian activists were arrested last month following a meeting with foreign ambassadors. Also read| Israel calls Abraham Accords an 'opportunity' for Palestinians However, following an international campaign backed by celebrities all three campaigners from the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights have been freed. A French presidential source described this as a positive sign and insisted that rights would be raised at the talks. The Egyptian presidency in a statement cited Sisi's spokesman as saying "the visit reflects both countries' keenness to strengthen the strategic relations between them in the coming period." The spokesman said Sisi would present "Egypt's vision" regarding crises in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East and the talks would also look at strengthening investment.

Egypt's Sisi arrives in France for controversial visit

The head of a leading Egyptian human rights group who was held for two weeks on terrorism charges said on Saturday he hoped that the campaign to secure his release would help others still jailed on similar allegations. 
 
Activists saw the detention last month of Gasser Abdel Razek, executive director of the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights (EIPR), and two of the group's other staff, as the latest escalation of a broad crackdown on political dissent under President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-hope-france-will-get-rid-of-macron-says-turkey-president-erdogan-347552">I hope France will get rid of Macron, says Turkey President Erdogan</a> 
 
Egypt's foreign ministry had said EIPR was operating illegally, an accusation the group denies. There has been no official statement from public prosecutors since Abdel Razek's release, and officials could not be reached for comment. 
 
The arrests, which came after EIPR hosted a briefing on human rights for 13 senior diplomats in Cairo on November&nbsp;3, sparked rare public criticism from Western states and an international campaign on social media. 
 
Abdel Razek said he was unclear why he had been held beyond the officially stated charges of belonging to a terrorist group, spreading false news and misusing social media - accusations made in the past against figures from across the political spectrum. 
 
Abdel Razek said it would be "business as usual" for EIPR.

"We're hitting the third decade of the 21st Century, human rights work will continue in Egypt and elsewhere," he said in an interview at his home in Cairo. 
 
"I`m hoping that our speedy release would have some sort of effect on the hundreds of people that are going through the same situation."

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While the total is unclear, rights groups say tens of thousands have been detained in a clampdown on political opposition since Sisi ousted the Muslim Brotherhood from power in 2013. 
 
Sisi has said Egypt holds no political prisoners, that security is paramount and that the government is promoting human rights by working to provide basic needs such as jobs and housing. The president and his backers say the detentions over recent years are necessary to stabilise Egypt. 
 
The three EIPR staff were freed on Thursday. Patrick Zaki, an EIPR researcher who was a graduate student in Italy before his arrest in February, remains in jail. 
 
Abdel Razek said he had been very cold for the first few nights in solitary confinement in Cairo`s Tora prison, but had not suffered any physical mistreatment. 
 
"It's a great feeling to be around my kids, my wife and friends, but it`s very painful to leave the people behind, so let`s hope we can pressure to get them all out."

The head of a leading Egyptian human rights group who was held for two weeks on terrorism charges said on Saturday he hoped that the campaign to secure his release would help others still jailed on similar allegations.

The head of a leading Egyptian human rights group who was held for two weeks on terrorism charges said on Saturday he hoped that the campaign to secure his release would help others still jailed on similar allegations. Activists saw the detention last month of Gasser Abdel Razek, executive director of the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights (EIPR), and two of the group's other staff, as the latest escalation of a broad crackdown on political dissent under President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Also read| I hope France will get rid of Macron, says Turkey President Erdogan Egypt's foreign ministry had said EIPR was operating illegally, an accusation the group denies. There has been no official statement from public prosecutors since Abdel Razek's release, and officials could not be reached for comment. The arrests, which came after EIPR hosted a briefing on human rights for 13 senior diplomats in Cairo on November 3, sparked rare public criticism from Western states and an international campaign on social media. Abdel Razek said he was unclear why he had been held beyond the officially stated charges of belonging to a terrorist group, spreading false news and misusing social media - accusations made in the past against figures from across the political spectrum. Abdel Razek said it would be "business as usual" for EIPR. "We're hitting the third decade of the 21st Century, human rights work will continue in Egypt and elsewhere," he said in an interview at his home in Cairo. "I`m hoping that our speedy release would have some sort of effect on the hundreds of people that are going through the same situation." × While the total is unclear, rights groups say tens of thousands have been detained in a clampdown on political opposition since Sisi ousted the Muslim Brotherhood from power in 2013. Sisi has said Egypt holds no political prisoners, that security is paramount and that the government is promoting human rights by working to provide basic needs such as jobs and housing. The president and his backers say the detentions over recent years are necessary to stabilise Egypt. The three EIPR staff were freed on Thursday. Patrick Zaki, an EIPR researcher who was a graduate student in Italy before his arrest in February, remains in jail. Abdel Razek said he had been very cold for the first few nights in solitary confinement in Cairo`s Tora prison, but had not suffered any physical mistreatment. "It's a great feeling to be around my kids, my wife and friends, but it`s very painful to leave the people behind, so let`s hope we can pressure to get them all out."

Egyptian rights group head hopes release will help other prisoners

A survey published on Monday revealed that the governance performance of Africa worsened for the first time in ten years.&nbsp;

The survey takes into account human rights, rule of law, and security among many. The Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG), considered the most comprehensive survey in Africa rates 54 African countries. The criteria are as follows: human rights, security, economic stability, just laws, free elections, corruption, infrastructure, health and education, and poverty.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/ethiopia-says-tigray-town-seized-war-embroils-eritrea-343515" hreflang="en">Ethiopia says Tigray town seized, war embroils Eritrea</a>

A decline of -0.2 points was recorded in the 2019 average, the compared to 2018. This marked the first sign of deterioration since 2010.

The 2019 African average score for overall governance declined by -0.2 points from 2018, registering the first year-on-year score deterioration since 2010, the report published by the foundation of Sudanese telecoms tycoon Mo Ibrahim said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/researchers-plan-new-colony-as-african-penguins-face-extinction-risk-341926" hreflang="en">Researchers plan new colony as African penguins face extinction risk</a>

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation, founded by Sudan’s telecom tycoon Mo Ibrahim aims to promote effective governance and development in Africa by compiling the data.

The report added that the progress achieved on the continent in the last decade was driven by improvements in economic opportunities and human development, as reported by Reuters.

"This is threatened, however, by an increasingly precarious security situation and concerning erosion in rights as well as civic and democratic space," the report said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/ethiopias-internal-conflict-goes-beyond-its-borders-rockets-hit-eritrea-capital-343193" hreflang="en">Ethiopia's internal conflict goes beyond its borders, rockets hit Eritrea capital</a>

According to the survey, declines were experienced across security, rule of law, participation, rights, and inclusion. According to the index, the region’s top performers include Mauritius, Cape Verde and Seychelles. At the bottom were South Sudan, Eritrea, and Equatorial Guinea.

A survey published on Monday revealed that the governance performance of Africa worsened for the first time in ten years. The survey takes into account human rights, rule of law, and security among many.

A survey published on Monday revealed that the governance performance of Africa worsened for the first time in ten years. The survey takes into account human rights, rule of law, and security among many. The Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG), considered the most comprehensive survey in Africa rates 54 African countries. The criteria are as follows: human rights, security, economic stability, just laws, free elections, corruption, infrastructure, health and education, and poverty. Also read: Ethiopia says Tigray town seized, war embroils Eritrea A decline of -0.2 points was recorded in the 2019 average, the compared to 2018. This marked the first sign of deterioration since 2010. The 2019 African average score for overall governance declined by -0.2 points from 2018, registering the first year-on-year score deterioration since 2010, the report published by the foundation of Sudanese telecoms tycoon Mo Ibrahim said. Also read: Researchers plan new colony as African penguins face extinction risk The Mo Ibrahim Foundation, founded by Sudan’s telecom tycoon Mo Ibrahim aims to promote effective governance and development in Africa by compiling the data. The report added that the progress achieved on the continent in the last decade was driven by improvements in economic opportunities and human development, as reported by Reuters. "This is threatened, however, by an increasingly precarious security situation and concerning erosion in rights as well as civic and democratic space," the report said. Also read: Ethiopia's internal conflict goes beyond its borders, rockets hit Eritrea capital According to the survey, declines were experienced across security, rule of law, participation, rights, and inclusion. According to the index, the region’s top performers include Mauritius, Cape Verde and Seychelles. At the bottom were South Sudan, Eritrea, and Equatorial Guinea.

Governance and human rights decline in Africa for first time in 10 years: Survey

Rajesh Mishra, BSF Inspector General (IG), Kashmir on Sunday said that a lot of harm was inflicted on civilians, including damage to their properties, because of the recent ceasefire violations by Pakistan.

While condemning the actions by Islamabad, Mishra said, the issue of human rights violations should be raised against the country.

"Lot of harm was inflicted on civilians including damage to their properties. Issue of human rights violation should be raised," said the BSF IG, on being asked if he has any message for the international community over multiple ceasefire violations by Pakistan on November 13.

Earlier today, Kashmir Frontier, Border Security Force (BSF) paid last respects to sub-inspector Rakesh Dobhal who was killed in a ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Baramulla district on Friday.The wreath-laying ceremony for Dobhal was held at Srinagar on Sunday.

"On November 13, Pakistan started unprovoked ceasefire violation on Line of Control (LoC), using artillery, mortars and other weapons targeting even the civilian areas deliberately. Sub-Inspector Rakesh Dobhal immediately reacted to the call of duty for retaliation and brought effective fire on enemy thus causing great damage to the enemy in Naugam Sector. While fighting bravely, he was hit by enemy fire. He was immediately evacuated but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries en route hospital," said BSF in a press release.

Rajesh Mishra, BSF Inspector General (IG), Kashmir on Sunday said that a lot of harm was inflicted on civilians, including damage to their properties, because of the recent ceasefire violations by Pakistan.

Rajesh Mishra, BSF Inspector General (IG), Kashmir on Sunday said that a lot of harm was inflicted on civilians, including damage to their properties, because of the recent ceasefire violations by Pakistan. While condemning the actions by Islamabad, Mishra said, the issue of human rights violations should be raised against the country. "Lot of harm was inflicted on civilians including damage to their properties. Issue of human rights violation should be raised," said the BSF IG, on being asked if he has any message for the international community over multiple ceasefire violations by Pakistan on November 13. Earlier today, Kashmir Frontier, Border Security Force (BSF) paid last respects to sub-inspector Rakesh Dobhal who was killed in a ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Baramulla district on Friday.The wreath-laying ceremony for Dobhal was held at Srinagar on Sunday. "On November 13, Pakistan started unprovoked ceasefire violation on Line of Control (LoC), using artillery, mortars and other weapons targeting even the civilian areas deliberately. Sub-Inspector Rakesh Dobhal immediately reacted to the call of duty for retaliation and brought effective fire on enemy thus causing great damage to the enemy in Naugam Sector. While fighting bravely, he was hit by enemy fire. He was immediately evacuated but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries en route hospital," said BSF in a press release.

Human rights issue should be raised against Pakistan for ceasefire violations: BSF

Countries infamous for human rights abuse - China, Pakistan, Russia have been elected to the U.N. Human Rights Council. Who voted for them? Palki Sharma Upadhyay has the details.

Gravitas: Why UNHRC votes should be transparent

Countries like China, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Cuba don't care about human rights. Then why, do they want a place on the United Nations Human Rights Council?

There are two possible reasons: They want to deflect attention from their own record, and block any criticism. And they want to weaken the council's ability to address any other global rights issues.

For instance:&nbsp; Burundi, considered one of the worst violators of human rights was a member of the rights council and served for three years from 2015 to 2018. In this period Burundi blocked all resolutions against itself and it voted against every country resolution that came its way.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-russia-and-pakistan-set-to-join-un-human-rights-council-334862" hreflang="en">China, Russia and Pakistan set to join UN human rights council</a>

The United Nations Human Rights Council was created in 2006.

In the last 14 years, China has served as a board member multiple times. And each time, China has deflected all criticism that came its way. In 2017 China sponsored a resolution called "promoting development over human rights". It was a resolution that prioritised development over human rights.

In 2018, China moved another resolution called "promoting mutually beneficial cooperation in the field of human rights".

Through this resolution China wanted to stop the practice of "naming and shaming" countries for violations. Beijing wanted countries to adopt a "state-led peer review process". The resolution passed but only after significant edits were made to water down China's original text. Interestingly, a high number of countries abstained from voting on this resolution.

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In recent times, China has voted against resolutions on grave international crimes in countries like Syria, Yemen and Myanmar.

Is the UNHRC compromised?

The members of the UNHRC should represent its values, and believe in human rights.

The UNHRC in its present form is only copying its failed predecessor - The Commission for Human Rights. Countries with records of abuses like torture, extrajudicial killings, political imprisonment and disappearances were its members.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/around-40-nations-rebuke-chinas-human-rights-policies-in-xinjiang-tibet-333035" hreflang="en">Around 40 nations rebuke China's human rights policies in Xinjiang, Tibet</a>

An editorial of The New York Times in 2006 had called this body "the shame of the United Nations" because it had China, Russia, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan as its members. The same countries look set to join the board of the UNHRC.

Countries like China, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Cuba don't care about human rights. Then why, do they want a place on the United Nations Human Rights Council?

Countries like China, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Cuba don't care about human rights. Then why, do they want a place on the United Nations Human Rights Council? There are two possible reasons: They want to deflect attention from their own record, and block any criticism. And they want to weaken the council's ability to address any other global rights issues. For instance: Burundi, considered one of the worst violators of human rights was a member of the rights council and served for three years from 2015 to 2018. In this period Burundi blocked all resolutions against itself and it voted against every country resolution that came its way. Also read: China, Russia and Pakistan set to join UN human rights council The United Nations Human Rights Council was created in 2006. In the last 14 years, China has served as a board member multiple times. And each time, China has deflected all criticism that came its way. In 2017 China sponsored a resolution called "promoting development over human rights". It was a resolution that prioritised development over human rights. In 2018, China moved another resolution called "promoting mutually beneficial cooperation in the field of human rights". Through this resolution China wanted to stop the practice of "naming and shaming" countries for violations. Beijing wanted countries to adopt a "state-led peer review process". The resolution passed but only after significant edits were made to water down China's original text. Interestingly, a high number of countries abstained from voting on this resolution. × In recent times, China has voted against resolutions on grave international crimes in countries like Syria, Yemen and Myanmar. Is the UNHRC compromised? The members of the UNHRC should represent its values, and believe in human rights. The UNHRC in its present form is only copying its failed predecessor - The Commission for Human Rights. Countries with records of abuses like torture, extrajudicial killings, political imprisonment and disappearances were its members. Also read: Around 40 nations rebuke China's human rights policies in Xinjiang, Tibet An editorial of The New York Times in 2006 had called this body "the shame of the United Nations" because it had China, Russia, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan as its members. The same countries look set to join the board of the UNHRC.

Why do chronic violators of human rights like China & Pak want a seat at the UNHRC?

China and Russia were elected to the United Nations Human Rights Council on Tuesday (Oct. 13), but support for Beijing dropped by more than 20% compared with a 2016 vote and Saudi Arabia failed in its bid to win a seat on the Geneva-based body.

UNHRC Elections 2020: China, Russia elected to U.N. rights council; Saudi Arabia fails

Some of the world's biggest violators of human rights have won seats at the UN Human Rights Council. This includes countries like Burundi and China. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how rights violators are weakening the UNHRC from inside.

Gravitas: Why the world's biggest violators of rights want a UNHRC membership

China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Cuba could be elected to the board of the UN Human Rights Council. Will the countries labeled as the biggest violators of rights now dictate the global rules for human rights? Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Rights violators takeover UN Human Rights Council

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