Trump’s First 100 Days: A Wave of Human Rights Concerns
In its first 100 days, the Trump administration has enacted policies that critics argue systematically undermine human rights domestically and globally, according to a report by Human Rights Watch (HRW). The compilation highlights 100 actions since January 20, 2025, targeting asylum seekers, free speech, and international aid programs.
Key issues include the unlawful deportation of Salvadoran national Kilmar Abrego García and other migrants to high-risk environments, potentially violating international prohibitions on enforced disappearances. The administration has also relocated asylum seekers to Panama and Costa Rica, circumventing legal protections. Domestically, activists—particularly those advocating for Palestinian rights—report arbitrary detentions and deportation threats.
Globally, abrupt cuts to foreign aid have endangered vulnerable populations in conflict zones, while withdrawals from human rights initiatives have weakened support for journalists and fact-finding groups. The administration has also escalated attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, which HRW links to constitutional equality principles under the 14th Amendment.
Despite legal challenges, protests like the April 19 “Hands Off!” march in Washington, DC, reflect growing public opposition. HRW’s US director, Tanya Greene, warned that the erosion of rights could intensify without sustained resistance.
The full list of documented harms is available on HRW’s website. Legal experts anticipate prolonged battles in courts and continued grassroots mobilization against these policies.
Interestingly, HRW had issued a report titled: “Human Rights Take Back Seat in Trump’s First 100 Days” back in 2017, criticizing his rhetoric and policies. In summary, Trump’s policies eroded rights: silenced criticism of abusive allies, revived tainted arms deals, and slashed aid. Domestically, aggressive ICE raids, anti-Muslim bias, and civil rights rollbacks marked a stark departure from U.S. values, the article said.
