The United States has been placed on the CIVICUS Monitor Watchlist, a global tool that tracks countries facing a decline in civic freedoms. This is a significant moment for a nation that has been historically viewed as a champion of democracy and human rights.
The decision comes amid growing concerns over the Trump administration’s actions, which CIVICUS describes as an “assault on democratic norms and global cooperation.”
CIVICUS, an international alliance of civil society organizations, listed several reasons for including the United States on its watchlist. These factors include mass dismissals of federal employees, the appointment of loyalists to key positions, and the withdrawal from international organizations such as the World Health Organization and the UN Human Rights Council.
The organization also pointed out restrictive executive orders and the dismantling of foreign aid programs, which have significantly affected constitutional freedoms of peaceful assembly, expression, and association.
“This is an unparalleled attack on the rule of law in the United States, not seen since the days of McCarthyism in the twentieth century,” said Mandeep Tiwana, Interim Co-Secretary General of CIVICUS. “Restrictive executive orders, unjustifiable institutional cutbacks, and intimidation tactics through threatening pronouncements by senior officials in the administration are creating an atmosphere to chill democratic dissent, a cherished American ideal.”
The United States currently has a “narrowed” rating on the CIVICUS Monitor. This indicates that while most citizens are able to exercise their civic rights, there are occasional violations. As a result, the U.S. is grouped with countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Italy, Pakistan, and Serbia.
CIVICUS warns that the U.S. risks moving toward an “obstructed” status, which it previously held during Donald Trump’s first term.
The report also criticized the administration’s management of media access and its crackdown on pro-Palestinian protests. CIVICUS noted that at least 12 states have introduced laws that restrict protests, including criminalizing the use of masks during demonstrations.
“Americans across the political spectrum are appalled by the undemocratic actions of the current administration,” Tiwana added.
Concerns have been raised about the U.S.’s inclusion on the watchlist, particularly regarding its influence on global democratic norms.
“Historically, the U.S. has been considered a beacon of democracy despite its flaws both at home and abroad,” Tiwana said. “But this administration’s actions could embolden authoritarian governments and undermine constitutional principles.”
