Ethics in International Relations: Humanitarian Intervention and Sovereignty

Introduction

Ethics in international relations grapples with the tension between state sovereignty (the Westphalian principle of non-interference) and humanitarian imperatives (the duty to protect human beings from mass atrocities). The central question: When, if ever, is it permissible for states or international bodies to intervene militarily in another state's internal affairs for humanitarian purposes? This debate lies at the heart of the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) doctrine, humanitarian intervention, and global justice.

Foundational Concepts

State Sovereignty

• Westphalian sovereignty (1648) - Each state has exclusive authority over its territory, no external interference.
• UN Charter, Article 2(1) - Sovereign equality of all members.
• UN Charter, Article 2(4) - Prohibition of the threat or use of force against territorial integrity.
• UN Charter, Article 2(7) - Nothing authorises intervention in matters essentially within domestic jurisdiction.
• Legitimacy - Sovereignty is not absolute; it carries responsibilities (state must protect its citizens).

Just War Theory (Jus ad Bellum - Justice of War)

Seven criteria refined through Aquinas, Grotius, Vitoria, and modern thinkers:

1. Just cause - Self-defence against aggression, or humanitarian intervention in cases of mass atrocities.
2. **Legitimate...