Human Rights Watch (HRW) warned Wednesday that President Donald Trump is pushing the United States toward authoritarian rule. The group said democracy worldwide is now at its lowest point in 40 years. HRW called the U.S. a growing threat to human rights and the international order.
According to HRW, Trump’s return to office has intensified a “downward spiral” in rights abuses already worsened by Russia and China. The report cites violent raids by ICE, racial scapegoating, and National Guard deployments as examples. It also criticizes retaliation against critics and attempts to weaken democratic checks and balances.
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HRW accused the U.S. of enforced disappearances, sending 252 Venezuelan migrants to El Salvador, where they faced torture and sexual abuse. The group said these acts show the United States now ranks as “less free” than in 1985. HRW urged nations to form alliances rooted in democracy, human rights, and international law.
The report contrasts with the U.S. State Department’s human rights report, which softened criticism of allied countries. While acknowledging a drop in gang violence in El Salvador, HRW noted widespread abuses including arbitrary detention and torture. The group also renewed its allegations of Israeli “crimes against humanity” against Palestinians in Gaza.
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HRW said Israel escalated violence in 2025, killing, displacing, and destroying Palestinian infrastructure. Israel denied the genocide claim, supported by the United States. Philippe Bolopion, HRW executive director, stressed that global coalitions must prioritize principles over short-term deals.