The Humanist Association of Germany – Federal Association has joined a global civil society initiative against a recent executive order issued by the US government. With this decree, the United States is withdrawing from important international organizations, conventions and treaties. More than 60 civil society organizations committed to human rights, democracy, freedom of thought, equality and humanitarian aid oppose this withdrawal.
The open letter, coordinated by Humanists International, warns that withdrawing from multilateral institutions undermines the international human rights system and weakens global cooperation at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions. Withdrawal from these mechanisms does not eliminate global challenges. Rather, it reduces opportunities for cooperation, accountability and collective problem-solving, while creating a vacuum that is likely to be filled by authoritarian or malevolent actors.
The signatories also express serious concern about rhetoric directed against civil society and international non-governmental organizations. They point out that such statements endanger human rights defenders and undermine the global architecture for the protection of democratic values.
The undersigned urge the US government to reverse this decision and re-engage constructively with the international community by reaffirming its commitment to international law, international cooperation and shared global responsibility.
The open letter is available online. Other civil society organizations and individuals are invited to join the call.
