According to a recent announcement from CIVICUS, a global alliance focused on civil society, the United States has been placed on its watchlist. The organization cites “unprecedented” actions by the Trump administration that they allege threaten democratic institutions and the rule of law.

Concerns Over Democratic Stability

Mandeep Tiwana, the interim co-secretary general of CIVICUS, emphasized that, “The Trump administration seems hellbent on dismantling the system of checks and balances which are the pillars of a democratic society.” He characterized the current political climate as an “unparalleled attack on the rule of law,” drawing comparisons to the McCarthy era.

Details of the Watchlist

The CIVICUS Monitor Watchlist highlights countries experiencing significant declines in civic freedoms. Alongside the United States, other nations such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Italy, Pakistan, and Serbia were noted for deteriorating civic spaces. The ratings are as follows:

• United States – Narrowed
• Italy – Narrowed
• Democratic Republic of the Congo – Repressed
• Pakistan – Repressed
• Serbia – Obstructed

“Open” represents the highest ranking, indicating unrestricted civic engagement, while “Narrowed” allows for limited civic freedoms with occasional violations.

Executive Orders and Legislative Actions

Since returning to the White House, Trump has issued over 125 executive orders, enacting significant changes to federal policies that impact human rights and governance. Specific actions include:

• Reversing federal diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
• Implementing a suspension of foreign aid programs.
• Dismantling the U.S. Agency for International Development and reducing its workforce.
• Withdrawing from international agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement, the U.N. Human Rights Council, and the World Health Organization.

Moreover, the passing of the controversial “nonprofit killer” bill in the U.S. House of Representatives could threaten the tax-exempt status of nonprofits deemed to support terrorism.

Impact on Freedom of Speech and Press

CIVICUS also expressed concern over potential repercussions on political expression, particularly on university campuses, following Trump’s executive order aimed at combating antisemitism. The order promised to identify resident aliens participating in protests and warned of deportation for those deemed supportive of extremism.

This executive action has raised alarm among critics who argue it could stifle free speech, especially as seen in the recent arrest of Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil at Columbia University, which was reportedly linked to this order.

In a move that may affect media transparency, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced a change in the selection process for press pool participation, which deviates from longstanding traditions.