Global protests have been increasing around the world due to authoritarian crackdowns in non-democratic states.  As a result, human rights in many nations have come under withering attack from despots trying to increase their grip on government or simply cling to power. This hearing will address the systemic failures of tyrannical regimes, widespread corruption, political imprisonment, and the protests that have shed light on the challenges faced by democratic activists who have taken to the street. It will take place on December 9th, the day before International Human Rights Day, to emphasize the various obstacles confronting the protection and expansion of human rights for more people. Human Rights Day commemorates the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the UN General Assembly in 1948. 

Witnesses

Ms. Joanne Lin
National Director, Advocacy and Government Affairs
Amnesty International USA

Courtney Radsch, PhD
Advocacy Director
Committee to Protect Journalists

Ms. Emilie Kao
Director of the Richard and Helen DeVos Center for Religion & Civil Society
Heritage Foundation