American Jewish World Service President and CEO Robert Bank released the following statement:
“We are dismayed by the Trump Administration’s decision to withdraw the United States from the UN Human Rights Council—the global body tasked with promoting and protecting human rights across the world. Although the council is imperfect, it has successfully moved the needle towards justice on critical human rights issues, including gender equality, respecting the rights of LGBTI people, preventing destructive mining and resource exploitation, and creating accountability after conflicts and wars. By withdrawing from the council rather than participating as a constructive member, the Administration only undermines our efforts to advance human rights and protect the most vulnerable people around the world.
“This is the latest example of the Trump Administration abdicating American leadership in the fight for international human rights. As American Jews who are moved to action to support the most vulnerable people worldwide, we are disappointed that the Administration has relinquished a critical tool to support those on the frontlines of the fight for human rights in the developing world, including the 450 organizations that AJWS supports in 19 countries. In order to advance human rights and seek meaningful reforms, the Trump Administration must temper its impulse to retreat from the global community and instead engage in meaningful, multilateral diplomacy.”
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About American Jewish World Service
American Jewish World Service (AJWS) is the leading Jewish organization working to pursue justice and fight poverty in the developing world. By supporting hundreds of social change organizations in 19 countries, we respond to the most pressing issues of our time—from disasters, genocide and hunger to the persecution of women and minorities worldwide. With Jewish values and a global reach, AJWS is making a difference in millions of lives and bringing a more just and equitable world closer for all. Learn more at www.ajws.org.
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