Human Rights at Risk, Warns Outgoing Senator

United States: While Senator Ben Cardin, a senior democrat from Maryland is preparing to relinquish the chairmanship of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he raised an alarm on how human rights might be systematically downplayed under the new administration. In a recent interview with Reuters, Cardin said that he is very concerned that the pursuit of human rights protection might not be as significant as some of the other goals of the US, as reported by Reuters.

The Advocacy and Leadership Continuum

Cardin, 81 years old, will retire in December at the end of the year completing his nearly sixty-year political career where he has been a Senator for the state of Maryland for 18 years. Cardin is an advocate for human rights and social justice and has co-sponsored the Global Protect Magnitsky Act, aimed at human rights abusers globally.

Retiring US Senator Cardin 'very concerned' about Trump and human rights – Reuters https://t.co/1LLRUclLz1

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Despite stepping down, Cardin emphasized the importance of the Senate actively monitoring foreign policy decisions, particularly as control shifts to the Republican majority.

Global Magnitsky Act: A Cornerstone of Accountability

Days before he retires as chairman of the influential U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Democrat Ben Cardin acknowledged worries about human rights being less of a U.S. priority during President-elect Donald Trump's second term. pic.twitter.com/nZ253eyXmc

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The Magnitsky Act, initially focused on Russian human rights violators, was expanded globally in 2016. It freezes assets and limits U.S. access for individuals involved in human rights abuses. Cardin noted the act’s effectiveness and longevity, stating, “It really puts the fear in the hearts of oligarchs. It’s here to stay and solid.”

Balancing Diplomacy and Values

🗳️🇺🇸 Retiring Senator Cardin raises concerns over Trump and human rights

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Outgoing Senate Foreign Relations Chair Ben Cardin expressed fears that human rights may take a backseat under Trump’s second term, citing potential compromises in… pic.twitter.com/4p80NzLozU

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Cardin expressed apprehension over potential foreign policy shortcuts that might compromise U.S. values, particularly in dealings with autocratic regimes. He also raised concerns about hastened resolutions to conflicts, such as Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, without ensuring alignment with American principles.

Middle East Challenges and Opportunities

As a strong ally of Israel, Cardin acknowledged the complexities of achieving Middle East peace, especially amid ongoing operations in Gaza. However, he pointed to regional shifts and alliances, such as efforts to counter Iran, as reasons for cautious optimism, as reported by Reuters.

Looking Ahead

Cardin still has faith in America’s foreign policy and calls for focus on separation of powers. “It is my hope that America does not sell out its Principals short of deals Shock told his counterpart urging caution in America’s relations to world and reiterated the nations commitment to do right by the world.