No Country Has Ever Been Held Responsible for Genocide. Can This Lawyer Change That?

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 17 min read 100% complete by Michael SteinbergerJanuary 19, 2026 at 11:00 AM

AI Summary

long article 17 min

Philippe Sands, a prominent human rights attorney, remains cautiously optimistic about the international legal system despite ongoing global conflicts and a perceived erosion of established norms. Sands has participated in numerous landmark cases, including representing Croatia in a genocide claim against Serbia and contributing to the prosecution of Charles Taylor. He also played a role in the establishment of a tribunal to investigate Russia's actions in Ukraine. Sands is currently involved in a case against Myanmar at The Hague. Beyond his legal work, Sands is also a celebrated author, known for "East West Street," which explores his family's Holocaust history and the origins of international human rights law.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Auschwitz 40% Croatia ×240% Srebrenica 40% Rwanda 40% Donald Trump 50% United States 50% Ukraine ×260% Gaza 60% The Hague ×260% Sudan 60% Myanmar 70% Philippe Sands ×690%

Keywords

philippe sands 100% genocide 90% human rights 80% international law 70% legal accountability 60% international court of justice 60% crimes of aggression 50% the hague 50% rules-based system 50%