Conducting Effective Research into State Complicity in Human Rights Abuses

Blakeley, R. and Raphael, S. 2020. Conducting Effective Research into State Complicity in Human Rights Abuses. Contemporary Social Science. 15 (2), pp. 196-210. https://doi.org/10.1080/21582041.2017.1391406

TitleConducting Effective Research into State Complicity in Human Rights Abuses
TypeJournal article
AuthorsBlakeley, R. and Raphael, S.
Abstract

This paper explores how to conduct effective research into state complicity in human rights abuses. This type of research is challenging: the secretive nature of state violence presents considerable difficulties for the researcher, in terms of both access to evidence, and the safety and security of the researcher and victims. Recent developments in the methods and types of data available present new opportunities for strengthening research. Drawing on our own experience, specifically our work to map the CIA’s rendition, detention and interrogation programme, we aim to show how we have navigated the difficult terrain of human rights investigation. The paper begins by exploring a number of challenges involved. We then discuss recent developments in human rights investigation techniques, as well as the emerging body of critical scholarship that is beginning to shape this kind of work among practitioners and academics alike. We consider some of the imbalances of power that affect this type of research. We then demonstrate how we tried to embrace new opportunities, while being mindful of the risks involved and the limitations of what we can achieve. We close with some reflections on ways forward for this type of research.

JournalContemporary Social Science
Journal citation15 (2), pp. 196-210
ISSN2158-2041
Year2020
PublisherTaylor & Francis
Accepted author manuscript
File Access Level
Open (open metadata and files)
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1080/21582041.2017.1391406
Publication dates
Published online23 Oct 2017
Published in print2020

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