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Washington, D.C.—Representatives Michael McCaul, Lead Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Eliot L. Engel, Chairman of the committee, today released the following statement commemorating International Human Rights Day, the 72nd anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights:

“On International Human Rights Day, we recognize those who struggle against persecution and injustice, and we honor those defenders who bravely fight for dignity and equality.  The United States is stronger when countries around the world share a commitment to universal rights and freedoms; American foreign policy is at its best when it promotes, protects, and advances human rights.

“We must work with other countries to uphold the values enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and ensure all nations govern justly, transparently, and with respect for the rights of all people.”

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