Jean-Louis Servan-Schreiber (In Memoriam 1937-2020)

Human Rights Watch mourns the passing of Jean-Louis Servan-Schreiber on November 28, 2020, at the age of 83. A renowned journalist, essayist, and publisher, he pioneered Human Rights Watch’s now-vibrant presence in France, leading the effort to establish an office in Paris, hire a director for our advocacy with the French government, and build a community of respected French intellectuals, artists, journalists, and business leaders around our cause. As a longtime member of Human Rights Watch’s board of directors, Jean-Louis was also a driving force in the organization’s globalization.

“For Jean-Louis, Human Rights Watch became a vocation. He brought his probing intellect, dedication, passion, and principles to the human rights cause,” said Kenneth Roth, executive director of Human Rights Watch. “I will miss him deeply as a committed leader of our organization and a true friend. We send his family and loved ones our deepest condolences.”