whataboutism
wut-uh-BOW-tiz-um
Definition
A technique or practice of responding to an accusation or difficult question by making a counter-accusation or raising a different issue to deflect criticism.
Etymology
The term is a portmanteau derived from the phrase 'what about', which precedes a counter-accusation, combined with the suffix '-ism'. It emerged in the 20th century to describe rhetorical diversionary tactics.
In the news
The article describes how the Soviet Union used whataboutism during the Cold War to deflect American criticism of its domestic policies by highlighting racial and economic inequality in the United States. It highlights this as a strategic narrative tool that persists in international competition today.
Human Rights Initiative Director's Note: February 2026 Edition
Read the full article ↗CSIS | Center for Strategic and International Studies