Righting Wrongs: Three Decades on the Front Lines Battling Abusive Governments
In “Righting Wrongs: Three Decades on the Front Lines Battling Abusive Governments,” Kenneth Roth, the former Executive Director of Human Rights Watch (HRW), provides an introspective account of his nearly thirty-year tenure with the organization. Roth’s memoir not only serves as a chronicle of HRW’s evolution into a prominent force in the human rights arena but also as a defense of his strategies and choices amid widespread criticism. In addition to the book content, this review draws upon other materials that critique the book’s narrative, depth, and implications, presenting a balanced view of Roth’s ambitious endeavor.
Roth’s leadership transformed HRW from a modest organization into a powerful entity, capable of influencing international discourse on human rights. He recounts a series of significant events, from the Kurdish genocide to the abuses in Syria, highlighting the impactful role of HRW’s researchers and advocates. This portrayal aligns with some observers’ assertion that Roth approached human rights violations with an unwavering commitment to exposing the truth, relying heavily on empirical evidence and rigorous analysis. His forensic style—developed during his time as a prosecutor—shapes the narrative, allowing Roth to dissect complex situations with precision.
However, this narrative is juxtaposed with a critique of Roth’s selective focus, particularly regarding Israel. For isntance, the absence of chapters detailing human rights abuses in Iran, raising concerns about a perceived bias that favors certain narratives while sidelining others. Roth’s tendency to frame issues in black-and-white terms—good versus evil—risks oversimplifying the multifaceted nature of global human rights advocacy. By neglecting the complexities of specific geopolitical contexts, Roth’s account may inadvertently serve a postcolonial agenda that minimizes pressing issues in non-Western countries.
Roth’s memoir is meticulously documented, comprising 325 pages of text and an extensive 323 endnotes, which speak to his commitment to veracity. Yet, this thoroughness is not without its pitfalls. Critics assert that Roth’s narrative is carefully curated to emphasize his successes while glossing over controversies that challenge his version of events. Some critics have highlighted instances where Roth’s account appears to omit critical details, particularly regarding HRW’s funding sources and its relationships with various regimes, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
For instance, Roth acknowledges a questionable donation from a Saudi billionaire but frames it as a mere oversight rather than a significant ethical breach. This selective transparency raises important questions about the integrity of HRW and Roth’s leadership. Without full disclosure of HRW’s financial entanglements, the credibility of its findings—especially those targeting governments like Israel—may be undermined.
Roth’s approach to human rights advocacy often emphasizes a strict adherence to principles of international humanitarian law (IHL). In “Righting Wrongs,” he argues that HRW has consistently applied these standards across various contexts, including conflicts involving Israel. However, this assertion is challenged by pointing out that Roth’s application of IHL is often selective and politically motivated. Critics argue that by failing to adequately differentiate between aggressors and victims, Roth inadvertently dilutes the moral clarity that should underpin human rights advocacy.
Furthermore, Roth’s defensive posture against critics—whom he frequently labels as “partisans”—can come off as dismissive. Such a stance detracts from a more nuanced understanding of the criticisms directed at HRW’s focus on Israel. This binary framing, while perhaps effective in rallying support, risks alienating those who advocate for a more balanced approach to human rights issues.
“Righting Wrongs” is as much about Roth’s legacy as it is about the evolution of HRW. The memoir aims to establish Roth’s place in the pantheon of human rights advocacy while simultaneously silencing detractors. Despite Roth’s considerable achievements in amplifying human rights narratives, his memoir may ultimately fall short of providing the comprehensive introspection that readers expect.
The concluding chapters, which reflect on Roth’s departure from HRW, touch upon his aspirations for the future of human rights advocacy. While Roth expresses optimism about the potential for NGOs to effect change, the readers must be reminded of the substantial challenges that remain, particularly in an increasingly polarized global landscape. Roth’s legacy as a human rights advocate will be shaped not only by his successes but also by how he addresses the criticisms of his tenure and the structural issues within the organizations he led.
“Righting Wrongs” is a formidable addition to the canon of human rights literature, offering insights into the evolution of advocacy in a complex world. Kenneth Roth’s detailed account reveals both the triumphs and tribulations of leading one of the world’s most influential human rights organizations. However, there remains significant gaps in Roth’s narrative, particularly regarding selective advocacy and the ethical implications of funding sources. Ultimately, Roth’s memoir stands as a testament to his unwavering belief in the power of facts and advocacy, even as it raises pressing questions about the future of human rights work in an increasingly divided political landscape. As readers engage with Roth’s reflections, they are invited to consider the intricate balance between advocacy and accountability—a challenge that lies at the heart of contemporary human rights discourse.
Book Information: Righting Wrongs: Three Decades on the Front Lines Battling Abusive Governments, Kenneth Roth, Knopf, 448 pp., $30, February 2025.
Reviewed by Basma Klaai