DeLauro Statement on Human Rights Day

WASHINGTON, DC (December 10, 2015) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement on Human Rights Day, marking the anniversary of when the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.

“On today’s anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the United States stands as a shining example for other nations that are still working towards universal freedoms. Since the United Nations first made the declaration in 1948, human rights have played a major role in shaping the future of our country. Today, we are a more equal and free nation because of our work to advance human rights here at home.

“However, we must reaffirm our commitment to human rights around the world. That means not sacrificing our principles to secure trade agreements like the Trans-Pacific Partnership. Under the TPP, the United States would enter into a trade agreement with many undemocratic countries with long histories of child labor violations, religious persecution, sex trafficking, political corruption, and other human rights abuses. To conclude TPP negotiations this year, the Administration artificially inflated Malaysia’s ranking on the State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons report. We cannot lower our high standards of human rights under trade agreements. We must instead encourage countries around the world to be more democratic, for we have a duty to guarantee fundamental freedoms and human rights for all.”

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