Human Rights System in Peril as Global Autocracy Rate Reaches Historic High

The global system of human rights is in peril, according to Human Rights Watch's annual World Report 2026, as 72 percent of the world's population now lives under autocracy. The report warns that this trend threatens fundamental freedoms and democratic institutions worldwide. HRW has documented numerous human rights abuses globally, including attacks on activists, journalists, and minority groups. The organization urges governments to protect human rights and promote accountability for those responsible for human rights abuses.