Tax Havens and International Human Rights

'Paul Beckett dares to link two themes that most will not associate: human rights and tax havens. This is long overdue. As he argues, we cannot appraise the cost of tax havens solely in monetary terms. Their opacity, which creates privileged access to capital and opportunity for some whilst denying it to others, is now a real issue in international human rights. His arguments are strong, and sometimes provocative, but what they do is add an essential dimension to the critical debate on the future of tax havens.' Professor Richard Murphy, City, University of London, and Director, Tax Research UK 'The financial crisis of 2008 and the subsequent dawning of the age of austerity has given fresh life to the debate about tax avoidance and the use of tax havens. Paul Beckett's book makes a valuable contribution to that debate. His fresh, rights-based analysis of the problems which tax havens cause, and the deleterious effects they can have on human rights, is a passionate call to arms.' Julian B. Knowles QC, Matrix Chambers, Gray's Inn, UK 'This scholarly book which amalgamates human rights and tax havens had to be written! Its originality, detailed and critical analysis, lucid style, comprehensive content of different legal systems and thoughtful and balanced recommendations stimulate the reader's mind into new thinking. It introduces an international debate and makes for essential reading.' Professor Jo Carby-Hall, University of Hull, UK