NEW YORK, NY 6/21/2005 12:20:00 PM
News / Business

Human Rights First Applauds Secretary Rice’s Clear Support of Democratic Reforms and Basic Freedoms in the Middle East

In a letter sent today, Human Rights First Executive Director Michael Posner praised Secretary Rice for her leadership in supporting “brave people demanding their rights” in the Middle East and North Africa region.

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice’s strong statements in support of democratic reforms, political pluralism and respect for fundamental rights in the Middle East are a welcome sign that the White House is willing to challenge its allies on human rights, Human Rights First said today. Dr. Rice’s speech is an important step towards a consistent approach to rights and democracy throughout the region.

Human Rights First, which has worked for decades to support and protect human rights defenders in Egypt and throughout the Middle East region, looks forward to a continuing dialogue with Secretary Rice and the administration as it works to fulfill these momentous commitments.

http://www.humanrightsfirst.org/defenders/pdf/hrf-rice-062105.pdf