Baltasar Garzon

Date of Birth: October 26, 1955

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Biography

Baltasar Garzón Real is a renowned Spanish jurist, primarily recognized for his work as an investigative judge. Born in Torres, Jaén, Spain, Garzón has become an influential figure in international human rights law through his persistent efforts to pursue justice for crimes against humanity. Garzón studied law at the University of Seville, where he graduated in 1979. He started his judicial career in 1981 and quickly rose through the ranks. He gained international prominence in 1998 when he issued an arrest warrant for former Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet, invoking principles of universal jurisdiction for crimes against humanity. This bold move marked a significant milestone in international law and demonstrated Garzón’s commitment to holding powerful figures accountable for their actions. Throughout his career, Garzón has been involved in numerous high-profile cases, including investigations into the atrocities committed during the Spanish Civil War and the Franco dictatorship, as well as cases involving terrorism, drug trafficking, and political corruption. Despite facing considerable opposition and legal challenges, including his suspension from Spain’s judiciary in 2012, Garzón has continued his fight for justice, contributing to various international legal initiatives and human rights organizations.

5 Interesting Facts about Baltasar Garzon

1. Baltasar Garzón issued an international arrest warrant for former Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet in 1998, which led to Pinochet’s arrest in London.

2. He played a key role in uncovering the Spanish government’s involvement in the GAL (Grupos Antiterroristas de Liberación) scandal, which implicated high-ranking officials in illegal anti-terrorist activities.

3. Garzón has been an outspoken advocate for investigating and prosecuting crimes committed during the Spanish Civil War and Franco’s dictatorship, despite facing significant political and legal opposition.

4. In 2012, Garzón was suspended from the Spanish judiciary for his involvement in a wiretapping case related to a corruption investigation, a decision that was widely criticized by human rights activists.

5. Garzón has authored several books on law and human rights, including “The Enigma of Law” and “The State of Fear.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Baltasar Garzon

1. “Justice is not only a right but also a duty.”

2. “The fight against impunity is a fight for the dignity of all human beings.”

3. “If we do not remember the past, we are condemned to repeat it.”

4. “The law must be a tool for justice, not for repression.”

5. “Human rights are universal, and their defense must be equally universal.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As a public servant and judge, Garzón’s net worth is not widely publicized or comparable to those in the private sector. However, his influence and contributions to international law are invaluable.

Children

Baltasar Garzón has three children: María Garzón, Baltasar Garzón (junior), and Aurora Garzón. His children have largely stayed out of the public eye, leading private lives away from the spotlight of their father’s high-profile career.