Administration Quote by Rowan Williams
“Violence is not to be undertaken by private persons. If a state or administration acts without due and visible attention to agreed international process, it acts in a way analogous to a private person. It purports to be judge of its own interest.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Guardian, 2005
State violence without international oversight mirrors private aggression, lacking legitimacy.
In simple terms: State violence without oversight is illegitimate.
Key Takeaway
Demand transparent, accountable governance.
Themes
violence
state
legitimacy
Mood
concerned
ethical
thoughtful
Type
political
legal
When to use this quote
- war zones
- policy debates
- human rights advocacy
- legal reforms
Key Concepts
international law
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can citizens hold states accountable?
- What mechanisms ensure international oversight?
A Different Perspective
States may claim security to justify actions.
