Full Story Can Trump be shamed into supporting human rights?
Aug 6, 2025
Kenneth Roth, the former executive director of Human Rights Watch, shares insights from his three decades of activism in a compelling discussion. He emphasizes the need for pressure on governments, including Trump, to enhance human rights protections. Roth reflects on his personal history, urging public accountability for leaders and the impact of grassroots movements. The conversation dives into the challenges of international law, the urgency of diplomatic action in Gaza, and the search for viable solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
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Personal History Drives Commitment
- Kenneth Roth was deeply motivated by his family's experience fleeing Nazi Germany during the Holocaust.
- Growing up with stories of persecution shaped his dedication to preventing atrocities globally.
Strategic Meetings with Tyrants
- Prepare intensively with researchers before meeting abusive leaders to anticipate their defenses.
- Quickly assess the tone to decide whether to engage constructively or confront harshly to maximize impact.
Power of Shaming Governments
- Shaming is effective because all governments claim to respect human rights for legitimacy, even if they don't.
- Even indifferent leaders like Trump can be pressured to alter harmful policies through public outrage.
