The Rise of Mercenaries: Richard Rowley's "Hell's Army"

Richard Rowley's documentary "Hell's Army" explores the emergence and implications of the Russian private mercenary group, The Wagner Group. Initially intended to focus on this specific faction, Rowley's research revealed a broader narrative concerning the decline of democratic norms and the rise of mercenary forces in global conflicts. The film follows dissident journalist Katya Hakim as she investigates The Wagner Group's activities across various regions, including Ukraine, Syria, and the Central African Republic.

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Rowley collaborated with notable figures in journalism and investigative research. Denis Korotkov, a veteran journalist who first exposed The Wagner Group, played a crucial role in connecting Rowley with the Dossier Center, an organization founded by Mikhail Khodorkovsky. This center specializes in investigating corruption and political interference linked to Russian authorities. Hakim's on-the-ground reporting, combined with Korotkov's insights and the Dossier Center's resources, provided a comprehensive view of the mercenary group's operations.

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Rowley emphasizes that the rise of The Wagner Group signifies a troubling shift in global governance. He notes that mercenaries are often a sign of state failure, stating, “Democracies don’t need mercenary armies.” He argues that the emergence of such forces reflects a deeper authoritarian trend in global politics, which threatens democratic institutions worldwide. Rowley draws parallels between the situation in Russia and the political landscape in the United States, suggesting that similar authoritarian tendencies are emerging domestically.

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Critics of the increasing reliance on mercenaries argue that this trend undermines the principles of democracy and accountability. Rowley highlights the fragility of journalism in this context, noting that the attacks on media freedom are symptomatic of a broader decline in liberal democratic values. He expresses concern that the current political climate may hinder journalists' ability to report on powerful entities effectively.

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Rowley articulates a sense of urgency regarding the implications of his findings. He believes that the rise of mercenary groups like The Wagner Group should serve as a warning to democracies worldwide. He states, “That’s where the urgency comes from, the fear that this darkness is coming everywhere.” This sentiment underscores the responsibility he feels to amplify the voices of those affected by violence and oppression.

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• “You can’t make a film about Wagner without talking to Denis,” — Richard Rowley, Director

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• “Democracies don’t need mercenary armies,” — Richard Rowley, Director

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• “We are living in a moment when this world is gone, and we are not yet capable of constructing a new kind of social order. The attacks and the destruction of journalism are part and parcel of this entire kind of devolution of the world we’ve lived in.” — Richard Rowley, Director

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• “Whenever you talk to victims of horrible violence, you find people who want to be heard and who deeply believe in the power of those stories.” — Richard Rowley, Director

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Despite the grim realities depicted in "Hell's Army," Rowley maintains a sense of hope. He believes in the power of storytelling and the importance of giving a voice to victims of violence. His commitment to this work reflects a belief that awareness and advocacy can lead to meaningful change, even in the face of daunting challenges.

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