Debating the “War on Terror” Under Obama

April 18, 2013

Where do we stand in the “war on terror”? Has President Barack Obama institutionalized and legitimated aspects of his predecessor’s approach, or has he made significant changes?

At a recent debate, leading human rights lawyers and Open Society Fellows David Cole and Jameel Jaffer discoursed on the Obama administration’s record in fighting terrorism thus far. The panelists reflect on the effectiveness of organizations such as the ACLU and Human Rights Watch in curbing the worst abuses and touch on such issues as Guantanamo, rendition, government secrecy and accountability for past abuses, drone warfare, and targeted assassinations.

Watch above.

Topics

National Security and Counterterrorism, Freedom of Information, Rule of Law

National Security and Human Rights

Rebuilding and Resilience: 20 Years Since 9/11

A woman standing at the September 11 memorial

On the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, Open Society shares reflections from partners on the road traveled since—and the hard work still ahead.

September 10, 2021 | Laleh Ispahani

Voices

No State Accountability for North Carolina Contractor Who Helped CIA Torture

While far too much of the CIA’s activities during the presidency of George W. Bush remains hidden from the public, a new report helps to fill the gap by taking a closer look at North Carolina’s involvement.

December 13, 2018 | Catherine Read

Event Recap

The History of American Islamophobia, from the 19th Century to the Trump Era

Khaled A. Beydoun’s new book charts Islamophobia in the United States and the ways anti-Muslim rhetoric is rooted in the country’s legal system.

October 31, 2018

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