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David Scheffer

11quotes

David Scheffer


Biography of a Pioneering Human Rights Lawyer and Diplomat

Full Name and Common Aliases


David Robert Scheffer is an American lawyer and diplomat who has made significant contributions to the field of international law. He is commonly known for his work as the first U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for War Crimes Issues.

Birth and Death Dates


Born on October 19, 1952, in Illinois, USA

Nationality and Profession(s)


American / Lawyer / Diplomat

Early Life and Background


David Scheffer grew up in a family that valued public service. His father was a diplomat who served in the U.S. Foreign Service, which instilled in Scheffer an early interest in international relations. Scheffer's own academic pursuits led him to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree from Knox College, Illinois, and later his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Harvard Law School. This solid foundation prepared him for a successful career in law and diplomacy.

Major Accomplishments


David Scheffer's most notable achievements can be attributed to his work in promoting international justice and human rights. Some of his key accomplishments include:

First U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for War Crimes Issues: In 1997, President Bill Clinton appointed Scheffer as the first-ever Ambassador-at-Large for War Crimes Issues. This position marked a significant milestone in the United States' commitment to combating international crimes.
 Lead Negotiator of the Rome Statute: Scheffer played a crucial role in negotiating the Rome Statute, which established the International Criminal Court (ICC). The ICC is a vital institution that holds individuals accountable for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.

Notable Works or Actions


Throughout his career, David Scheffer has been involved in various initiatives aimed at advancing international justice. Some notable works include:

Scheffer Report: In 1997, Scheffer submitted a comprehensive report to the U.S. Congress on the need for an independent war crimes tribunal. This report marked a turning point in the United States' approach to addressing international crimes.
 ICC Negotiations: As lead negotiator of the Rome Statute, Scheffer worked tirelessly with other countries to establish the ICC. His efforts helped shape the ICC's mandate and jurisdiction.

Impact and Legacy


David Scheffer's impact on the field of international law is immeasurable. He has inspired a new generation of lawyers and diplomats to work towards creating a more just world. Scheffer's legacy extends far beyond his professional accomplishments; he has also been an influential teacher, mentor, and advocate for human rights.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


David Scheffer is widely quoted and remembered for his groundbreaking work in promoting international justice. His dedication to upholding human rights and combating war crimes has left a lasting impact on the world stage. As a pioneer in the field of international law, Scheffer continues to inspire leaders and scholars alike.

Quotes by David Scheffer

The trial is clearly verging on dysfunction at this point.
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The trial is clearly verging on dysfunction at this point.
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#clearly
The tribunal did not object to us doing this, also.
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The tribunal did not object to us doing this, also.
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#object
There's a profusion of atrocity sites throughout Kosovo. They are popping up every day.
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There's a profusion of atrocity sites throughout Kosovo. They are popping up every day.
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#atrocity
The reports that are coming out, particularly by Human Rights Watch, merit our very, very serious consideration,
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The reports that are coming out, particularly by Human Rights Watch, merit our very, very serious consideration,
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#coming
This court is not going away. It's here to stay, ... Get used to it, get over it, get on with it.
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This court is not going away. It's here to stay, ... Get used to it, get over it, get on with it.
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#court
This is a special court, with a special charter and special rules.
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This is a special court, with a special charter and special rules.
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#charter
With the exception of Rwanda in 1994 and Cambodia in 1975, you would be hard-pressed to find a crime scene anywhere in the world, since World War II, where a defenseless civilian population has been assaulted with such ferocity and criminal intent, and suffered so many multiple violations of international humanitarian law in such a short period of time, as in Kosovo since mid-March 1999,
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With the exception of Rwanda in 1994 and Cambodia in 1975, you would be hard-pressed to find a crime scene anywhere in the world, since World War II, where a defenseless civilian population has been assaulted with such ferocity and criminal intent, and suffered so many multiple violations of international humanitarian law in such a short period of time, as in Kosovo since mid-March 1999,
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#anywhere
It is extremely damaging to U.S. national interests.
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It is extremely damaging to U.S. national interests.
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#damaging
Our worst assumptions are being borne true in Kosovo.
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Our worst assumptions are being borne true in Kosovo.
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#borne
Our worst assumptions are being borne true in Kosovo. The proliferation of new sites is all over Kosovo at this time, ... Late Edition.
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Our worst assumptions are being borne true in Kosovo. The proliferation of new sites is all over Kosovo at this time, ... Late Edition.
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#borne
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