Embassy News 2007
State Department Releases Annual Human Rights Report
The State Department’s annual Country Reports on Human Rights Practices describe the performance of governments in putting into practice their international commitments on human rights.
These congressionally mandated country reports on human rights practices are an essential element of the United States' effort to promote respect for human rights worldwide. For three decades, these annual reports have been used widely here and abroad as a reference document for assessing the progress made and the challenges that remain. They also have served as a foundation for cooperative action among governments, organizations, and individuals seeking to end abuses and strengthen the capacity of countries to protect the fundamental rights of all.
The reports review each country's performance in 2006. Each report speaks for itself. Yet, broad patterns are discernible and are described below, supported by country-specific examples. The examples we cite are illustrative, not exhaustive.
Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice said, "With the release of this year's reports we are recommitting ourselves to help new democracies deliver on their people's aspirations for a better life. We are recommitting ourselves to stand with those courageous men and women who struggle for their freedom and their rights. And we are recommitting ourselves to call every government to account that still treats the basic rights of its citizens as options rather than, in President Bush's words, the non-negotiable demands of human dignity."
To view the section of the report on Iceland, please click on this link: http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2006/78817.htm