Local Voices
Just Security’s “Local Voices” section features perspectives and analysis from individuals directly affected by conflict, human rights abuses, and political crises around the world.
336 Articles
Israel is Annexing the West Bank. Don’t be Misled by its Gaslighting
Three indicators can show a change in the legal status of a territory, demonstrating de jure annexation, even without a formal declaration. Under this test, Israel is presently…
Haiti’s Police Protests Highlight Armed Gangs’ Ties to Government
In January alone, at least 16 officers died and two others are missing. The culprits are armed gangs tied to official corruption.
Antisemitism and Threats to American Democracy
"Effectively addressing the risks posed by rising antisemitism and its often complex relationship with other forms of hate and anti-democratic movements will require a comprehensive…
Lawyers Under Threat: Highlighting Their Plight
The annual Day of the Endangered Lawyer focuses attention on an increasingly frequent tool of autocrats: targeting their opponents' lawyers.
Extend US Leadership on Ukraine to Post-War Reconstruction Too
G7 donors are planning now for Ukraine’s recovery. Experts explain why that should include appointing an American to lead coordination.
The U.N. Fact-Finding Mission: An Accountability Turn for Iran?
The creation of the first U.N. fact-finding mission on Iran signals that the world will not stand silent in the face of egregious human rights abuses.
As Haiti’s Last 10 Lawmakers’ Terms Expire, Political Transition Must Take Priority Over Military Intervention
A human rights defender urges the US to press the Prime Minister to reach an agreement to proceed with a civil society transition plan.
A Presidential Appeal to the US and the EU for Bosnia’s Democratization
Željko Komšić, a member of Bosnia's presidency, calls for allies to press for an end to sectarianism rather than reinforcing it.
How the US Can Help the Struggling Yazidi Community in Iraq
More than eight years since ISIS destroyed Sinjar, the region still needs rescue, redevelopment, and political pressure for lasting stability.
UN Counterterrorism and Technology: What Role for Human Rights in Security?
A key UN committee opened its doors to civil society and experts, but the resulting Delhi Declaration contains little of that input thus far.
Fighting Tunisia’s Rampant Corruption with Autocracy – Kais Saied’s Chimera
Three years since taking office as president, the pledges that legitimized his ascent have fallen far short as he moves to monopolize power.
Is Colombia Trapped in “War Mode?” In Wake of Truth Commission, New Leftist Government Recalibrates US Ties
Strengthening rule of law and democracy will require re-engineering the joint policies of the US and Colombian governments.