First published 2013
William Shawcross tackles the complex challenge of delivering justice to enemies who reject the very civilization that created our legal systems. From the Nuremberg Trials through contemporary struggles in Cambodia, the USSR, China, Bosnia, and Rwanda, democratic nations have grappled with how to prosecute mass atrocities. International courts lack universal recognition. No global agreement exists on punishing the worst criminals. The war against Al Qaeda presents unique difficulties. While Navy Seals killed Osama bin Laden in Pakistan to widespread American approval, the architect of the September 11 attacks remains alive. Khalid Sheikh Mohammed sits in custody, but what form of justice should he receive? The U.S. offers him a military tribunal rather than civilian trial. Critics call this approach hypocritical, indecisive, or inadequate. Defenders argue it represents the best possible response to someone fundamentally opposed to democratic values. Shawcross explores this heated debate over applying justice during wartime and confronts the eternal question facing all victors in conflict.
Genres: history, international-relations, political-science, politics, non-fiction, 21st-century, justice, law
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-allies, moral-dilemma
Setting: Bosnia, Cambodia, China, Pakistan, Rwanda, USSR
Period: September 11 Attacks, Nuremberg Trials
272 pages · Paperback · PublicAffairs
Content warnings: violence