Who We Are: Human Rights First’s Elect to End Torture ’08 Campaign

Human Rights First is a non-profit, nonpartisan international human rights organization dedicated to building respect for human rights and the rule of law.  Human Rights First does not support or oppose any candidate for public office. 

In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, the U.S. government instituted a variety of security measures – some grounded in common sense, but others that violate traditional concepts of liberty without increasing safety.  Through our research and advocacy, Human Rights First has been at the forefront of efforts to ensure that the rule of law is protected in the post September 11 environment. 

Elect to End Torture ’08 is a nonpartisan campaign to make sure that the next President puts an end to policies allowing torture and cruel treatment and adopts a strong national security policy that is consistent with the laws and values of our nation.
Goal: Elect to End Torture ’08 is asking all of the candidates to commit to:

• Put an end to torture and ensure a single standard of humane treatment for all interrogations conducted by U.S. personnel -- including by the CIA and private contractors.
• Halt the "extraordinary rendition" of detainees to countries known to torture prisoners.
• Close Guantanamo and try detainees suspected of committing crimes in accordance with international and U.S. law.
• Urge Congress to restore the right of habeas corpus to non-citizens – including longtime permanent residents of the U.S. – to ensure that courts can oversee the decision to detain anyone as an "unlawful enemy combatant."

Ensure that trials of detainees are full and fair. Any trials by military commissions will be conducted consistent with the Uniform Code of Military Justice and in compliance with the procedures set forth in the Manual for Courts-Martial.