Special Problems III: The Question of Using Military Force in the Frame of the Responsibility to Protect

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

    Abstract

    This chapter examines the ethics and politics of using military force to protect populations from mass atrocities. I trace the emergence of the concept of the Responsibility to Protect (R2P), observing its deep historical roots as well as its rapid development in recent years. I then explore ongoing ethical and political debates concerning R2P and the use of force. I observe that, while virtually all states agree that the suffering of vulnerable populations should be a matter of international concern, some states continue to be reluctant to endorse a right of military intervention for their protection. They do so for both principled and pragmatic reasons. Meanwhile some other states, while accepting that there is such a right, resist suggestions there may be a duty to act to protect the vulnerable when such action does not coincide with their vital interests.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationThe Ashgate Research Companion to Military Ethics
    EditorsJames Turner Johnson and Eric D. Patterson
    Place of PublicationFarnham, Surrey and Burlington, VT
    PublisherAshgate Publishing Ltd
    Pages89-99
    Volume1
    Edition1st
    ISBN (Print)9781472416285
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2015

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'Special Problems III: The Question of Using Military Force in the Frame of the Responsibility to Protect'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this