108 - Extrajudicial Killings and Targeted Assassinations
Nov 13, 2023
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The podcast discusses the rise of extrajudicial killings and targeted assassinations, exploring their origins, implications, and the lack of consequences faced by governments. It delves into high-profile assassinations, the use of poison as a method of attack, and the involvement of private forces. The podcast also explores the increasing trend of targeted assassinations, the role of intelligence agencies, and the response of the US and Russia. The chapter concludes with acknowledgements and book recommendations for further reading.
Extrajudicial killings are becoming more prevalent globally, raising concerns about the erosion of international law and the need for enforcement.
Drone strikes, justified by counterterrorism efforts, have led to an increase in extrajudicial killings and the erosion of norms due to insufficient international laws and enforcement.
The use of poisons, such as polonium-210 and Novichok, in targeted assassinations is highly effective in instilling fear and self-censorship among journalists, activists, and political opponents.
Deep dives
Extrajudicial killings and the complexity surrounding them
Extrajudicial killings are more complex than black and white. The assassination of Osama bin Laden sparked international debate over the US's right to carry out such an operation without Pakistan's permission, despite being seen as a violation of sovereignty. However, many still agree with Obama's decision. This has set a precedent for other nations, like Russia, to use lower-budget versions of similar operations, such as the assassination of Alexander Litvinenko. Targeted assassinations have become more prevalent, with countries like Saudi Arabia and China targeting dissenting journalists and citizens abroad. This rise in extrajudicial killings has sparked discussions about the erosion of international law and the need for enforcement.
The use of drones and targeted killings
Drones have become the new method for targeted killings, especially for nations like the US. The US Congress passed the Patriot Act and the authorization of military force after 9/11, giving greater leeway in counterterrorism efforts. Drone strikes have seen a sharp increase, peaking in 2017 with an estimated 19,000 people killed that year. These strikes are legally murky, and cases like the targeting of Anwar al-Awlaki, a US citizen, have raised ethical concerns. The US justifies these operations as necessary in the fight against terrorism, surpassing the laws of armed conflict. However, international laws and enforcement are insufficient, leading to an erosion of norms and an increase in extrajudicial killings.
The expansion of targeted assassinations and the future implications
More nations, including India, Russia, and smaller countries, are becoming emboldened and engaging in extrajudicial killings. Russia's operations display a mix of sophistication and sloppiness, likely leaving breadcrumbs to deter dissidents. India's recent killing of a Sikh nationalist in Canada highlights its confidence in avoiding serious consequences. The global landscape is shifting, with countries increasingly comfortable targeting their own citizens abroad. Lack of meaningful sanctions, changing norms, and the need for stronger international enforcement contribute to this rise. As countries like the US and Russia observe each other, the use of mercenaries and private forces may increase. The red line for these operations is continuously shifting, raising concerns about accountability and the future of geopolitical dynamics.
The Use of Poisons in Targeted Assassinations
The podcast discusses the use of poisons, such as polonium-210 and Novichok, in targeted assassinations carried out by countries like Russia. These poisons are chosen because their effects are slow and painful, sending a strong message to a particular group of people. The victims often die surrounded by friends and family, amplifying the impact. The use of poison as a method of attack is seen as highly effective in instilling fear and self-censorship among journalists, activists, and political opponents.
The Difficulty in Stopping Extra-Judicial Killings
The podcast explores the challenge of stopping extra-judicial killings carried out by governments. The lack of concrete rules and enforcement mechanisms, coupled with the proliferation of technology, makes it difficult to contain these operations. Investigative authorities face challenges in identifying and prosecuting those responsible, as operatives are often long gone and extradition is unlikely. Organizations like the International Criminal Court (ICC) lack the power to enforce mechanisms, and major countries are hesitant to give up the leverage provided by such operations. Without effective punishment mechanisms, it is likely that extra-judicial killings will continue to increase.
The unsettling trend of Extrajudicial Killings is on the rise. A method once used mainly by the US and Russia is now being increasingly adopted by many more countries, mostly targeting defectors and opposition living abroad. With these methods ostensibly looking like a path for governments to end their most vocal opposition without consequences, the appeal is certainly clear. However, some worry that the normalization of these incidents may lead to a future where killings of controversial figures become more and more frequent on a global scale? We put this to our panel of experts. On the panel this week: - Sean McFate (Georgetown) - Andrei Soldatov (CEPA) - Greg Miller (Washington Post) Intro - 00:00 PART 1 - 06:38 PART 2 - 28:22 PART 3 - 52:02 Outro - 1:02:18 Follow the show on @TheRedLinePod Follow Michael on @MikeHilliardAus Support the show at: https://www.patreon.com/theredlinepod For more info, please visit: https://www.theredlinepodcast.com/
