The Last Pillar: Towards Alternatives to R2P’s 3rd Pillar Practice (Final Version)

Abstract

The paper aims at answering the following question: What are the contemporary limits of the R2P norm in theoretical/empirical/practical terms since its adoption in 2005? To highlight these limits, the paper will focus on theoretical assumptions of international relations and normative theory through a constructivist lens, while analyzing how the contemporary international arena either facilitates or hampers the development of the norm. These theoretical findings will be weighted up against the empirical facts stemming from three case-studies (Libya, Syria, and Myanmar). The paper will be concluded through a chapter which will bring together all findings and analyze the current answers policy documents have brought forward to somewhat solve the problems inherent to the norm. Finally, the author will propose some solutions of his own.