Beijing's State Council Information Office released its report on human rights violations in the United States in 2024, offering a comprehensive review of political, social and economic issues in an election year marked by deepening divisions.
Money, Politics and Voter Rights
The report notes that U.S. election spending hit a record $15.9 billion in 2024, fueling gerrymandering and gray-area campaign tactics. With 24 states enacting voter suppression laws and 17 adopting stricter ID requirements, millions of elderly, minority, disabled and low-income voters face barriers at the ballot box.
Social Inequality on the Rise
Skyrocketing inflation and widening wealth gaps have left over 40 million Americans in poverty. Food insecurity affects 13.5 percent of households, while homelessness jumped 18 percent to more than 700 000 people. Household debt and medical bankruptcies are at near-record highs.
Public Health and Safety
- Opioid and stimulant overdoses surged, contributing to over 100 000 annual drug-related deaths.
- Gun violence remains high, with 503 mass shootings and over 40 000 deaths in 2024.
- Police use-of-force incidents injured roughly 300 000 people, with 1 300 fatalities in officer-involved shootings.
Discrimination and Rights Gaps
Ethnic minorities face systemic inequities: Black Americans are three times more likely to be killed by police, and life expectancy gaps persist. Women and children's rights are under strain, with high rates of sexual harassment, areas without maternity care and rising child labor.
Migrant and International Concerns
The report highlights worsening conditions for migrants at the southern border, citing inhumane treatment and hundreds of missing children. It also criticizes U.S. foreign policy for intensifying global conflicts and imposing broad economic sanctions.
As the U.S. navigates post-election challenges, this report calls for renewed commitment to human rights and equality, questioning whether political interests will yield to fundamental principles of dignity and justice.
Reference(s):
China releases report on human rights violations in U.S. in 2024
cgtn.com
