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SRES 355

A resolution requesting information on the Republic of Rwanda's human rights practices pursuant to section 502B(c) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961.

119th Congress Introduced by Tim Kaine and 1 co-sponsor

SRES 355 demands a report on Rwanda's human rights practices, focusing on non-citizens removed by the U.S., to ensure accountability and protect their rights.

Introduced in Senate
0
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Bill Summary · SRES 355

Summary of SRES 355: Resolution Requesting Information on Rwanda's Human Rights Practices

Bill Number: SRES 355
Title: A resolution requesting information on the Republic of Rwanda's human rights practices pursuant to section 502B(c) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961
Status: Introduced in Senate
Introduced Date: July 31, 2025
Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SRES 355 is to request a comprehensive report from the Secretary of State regarding the human rights practices of the Republic of Rwanda. This request is made in accordance with section 502B(c) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, which mandates that the U.S. government assess the human rights conditions in countries receiving U.S. assistance. The resolution aims to ensure accountability and transparency concerning the treatment of individuals, particularly those who are not Rwandan citizens but have been removed to Rwanda by the U.S. government.

Key Provisions

The resolution outlines specific requirements for the report to be submitted by the Secretary of State within 30 days of the resolution's adoption. The report must include:

  1. Credible Information on Human Rights Violations:

    • Allegations of arbitrary arrests, detention, torture, and cruel treatment.
    • Violations of due process rights for non-citizens removed to Rwanda.
    • Incidents of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
    • Issues related to trafficking in persons, including forced labor.
    • Legal rights and treatment of non-citizens in Rwanda.
  2. U.S. Government Actions:

    • Efforts to promote human rights and discourage violations by the Rwandan government.
    • Assessments of how Rwanda treats non-citizens prior to their removal.
    • Steps taken to ensure humane treatment and legal status for non-citizens wishing to remain in Rwanda.
  3. Additional Information:

    • Assessments of the likelihood that U.S. security assistance could support human rights violations.
    • Conditions in Rwandan detention centers and prisons.
    • Actions taken to comply with U.S. court orders regarding the return of individuals wrongfully removed to Rwanda.
    • Information on any agreements or financial transactions between the U.S. and Rwandan governments related to the treatment of non-citizens.

Who Would Be Affected

The resolution primarily affects:
- The Government of Rwanda, by holding it accountable for its human rights practices.
- Non-citizens who have been removed to Rwanda by the U.S. government, as their treatment and legal rights are central to the report.
- U.S. government agencies involved in foreign relations and human rights advocacy.

Procedural Aspects

  • The resolution was introduced in the Senate on July 31, 2025, and has been referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations for further consideration.
  • The Secretary of State is required to submit the requested report within 30 days of the resolution's adoption, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.

Conclusion

SRES 355 seeks to enhance oversight of Rwanda's human rights practices and ensure that U.S. foreign assistance does not inadvertently support human rights abuses. By requiring a detailed report from the Secretary of State, the resolution aims to promote accountability and protect the rights of individuals affected by U.S. actions in Rwanda.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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