The United States affirms its commitment to human rights, including the right to freedom of expression through peaceful protest. Incidents of violence during protests, as well as violence as a form of protest, harm legitimate calls for reform and progress, which should be addressed via engagement and dialogue.
The United States calls for all Hondurans, both protesters and security forces, to refrain from violence, to exercise restraint, and to demonstrate respect for the fundamental human rights of their fellow citizens. We also urge transparent and expeditious investigations into protest-related deaths and injuries, as well as allegations of other serious human rights violations. Accountability is an important element of democracy that helps ensure citizen confidence.
