Because terrorism can negatively impact human rights, countries are obligated to protect the rights of their citizens through effective counterterrorism measures. At the same time, countries must ensure that these measures comply with international human rights law.
Unfortunately, the reality is that human rights are often sidelined when counterterrorism policies are crafted. Unintended consequences of these laws can restrict freedom of association, expression and peaceful assembly, among other basic rights. In repressive regimes, counterterrorism laws and policies are often used as an excuse for restrictive measures against civil society. Civil society must be diligent in pushing back against restrictive policies and ensure that adequate Humanitarian Safeguards are in place.
Featured Resources
C&SN Speaks at High-Level International Conference on Human Rights, Civil Society and Counter-Terrorism
C&SN’s Associate Director for Policy and Advocacy Ashleigh Subramanian-Montgomery traveled to Málaga, Spain this week to participate in the United Nations High-Level International Conference on Human Rights, Civil Society and Counter-Terrorism. During Session IV of the
Unpacking Treasury’s 2022 National Terrorist Financing Risk Assessment
By Ashleigh Subramanian-Montgomery Background On March 1, 2022, the Treasury Department published the 2022 National Terrorist Financing Risk Assessment (NTFRA). This updates the 2018 NTFRA and 2015 NTFRA reports. The risk assessment identifies the groups
New Issue of International Review of the Red Cross: Counterterrorism, Sanctions and War
On Feb. 23, 2022, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) released their latest edition of the International Review of the Red Cross, with a thematic focus on ‘Counterterrorism, sanctions and war’. The edition
C&SN Submits Comments to UN Special Rapporteur for Report to the 50th Session of the Human Rights Council
On Feb. 18, 2022, responding to a request for input, the Charity & Security Network submitted comments to the UN Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association, in order
C&SN Op-Ed: US Is Effectively Stealing Billions From a Nation Ravaged by a US-Initiated War – Truthout
February 18, 2022 C&SN Associate Director for Policy and Advocacy Ashleigh Subramanian-Montgomery offers her analysis of the Biden administration's recent decision to effectively steal Afghanistan's foreign reserves by setting aside half for the families of
New FAQs Mark Treasury’s Latest Progress on Afghanistan, but Broader Policy Solutions Are Still Essential
On February 2, 2022 the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) published new Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding the General Licenses issued for Afghanistan. These FAQs are designed to help clarify what types of activities