We Are Bellingcat

By Elliot Higgins.

Some books grab you from the first page, and We Are Bellingcat by Elliot Higgins was exactly that kind of book for me. I couldn’t put it down—it captivated me so completely that I devoured it in just two days, even while on vacation in Normandy. And believe me, those days were packed with activities! But every spare moment, whether visiting the beach or riding in the car (as passenger of course), I was engrossed in this book. My boyfriend, bless him, patiently watched as I disappeared into its pages at every opportunity. Thankfully, he understands my love for books.

I’ve been aware of Bellingcat for years now, which isn’t surprising given my background. With my activist roots and academic experience in security studies, Bellingcat’s work has been on my radar for a long time. I remember first learning about them in university; their innovative approach to open-source intelligence (OSINT) was mind-blowing. Later, during my research on inverse surveillance for the Asimov Institute, Bellingcat surfaced again as a prime example of the power of digital sleuthing. Despite their groundbreaking work, I’ve noticed that Bellingcat isn’t as widely recognized outside of circles like mine—people passionate about justice, security, and technology. And that’s a shame because their impact on the global stage is nothing short of extraordinary.

So, when I stumbled upon We Are Bellingcat in a small ABC bookstore in The Hague, I didn’t hesitate for a second. I had to buy it. And I’m so glad I did.

What is We Are Bellingcat About?

In We Are Bellingcat, Elliot Higgins takes readers behind the scenes of the groundbreaking investigative journalism collective he founded. Bellingcat is not your typical news organization—it’s a group of citizen journalists and digital detectives who use open-source data to uncover the truth behind some of the world’s most significant events. Whether it’s exposing war crimes, uncovering state-sponsored misinformation campaigns, or tracking down perpetrators of heinous acts, Bellingcat does it all with nothing more than publicly available information and a tenacious drive to seek the truth.

Higgins shares how Bellingcat grew from a small blog into a global force, challenging traditional notions of journalism and intelligence work. The book reads almost like a thriller, with fast-paced narratives and real-world stakes that keep you on the edge of your seat. What I loved most, though, is how Higgins brings out the humanity in the work they do. It’s not just about the technology or the data; it’s about the people who dedicate their lives to making the world a more transparent and accountable place.

Reading this book felt like a revelation. It’s not just a testament to the power of open-source intelligence, but also a powerful reminder of what dedicated individuals can achieve when they harness the tools at their disposal for the greater good.

If you’re interested in the intersection of technology, journalism, and justice—or if you simply love a good, thought-provoking read—I can’t recommend We Are Bellingcat enough. It’s a book that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.