Humantiarian Intervention In Theory

Contradictions between the norms of sovereignty, non-use-of-force, non-intervention and the reality of humanitarian intervention pose the question of why states intervene. Through the framework of the three traditions of international thought identified by Martin Wight--Realism, Rantionalism and Revolutionism, this thesis aims at finding answers to this question. Realists believe in power instead of moral universalism. They argue states are only representatives of their own citizens. Aiming at the maintenance of order, rationalists render the norm of non-intervention the foremost important and humanitarian intervention exceptional. Revolutionists prioritize justice over all values and contend humanitarian intervention not only rights of states but also obligation. The decision of intervention is product of a conversation between the three traditions that is built into pragmatic debates about the likely outcome.The Darfur Crisis has been high lightened due to the complexity of the issue and Sino-Sudan ties and China faces great challenges on handling the issue. The study first examines the lifeline of the crisis and then how other states and international organizations have reacted. By assessing policies of China and the United States of America on Darfur with the theory of two-level games and constructivism, the study identifies a logical connection between the emphasis policy makers placed on one or more of the traditions and their conclusions about the major factors that inform decisions to intervene.The study finds that rational approach overrides the other two in considerations of Chinese and American policies on Darfur. The United States adopted such an approach because of the compromises between its internal interest groups and its foreign policy priority of the War on Terror. China adopted this approach as the result of its continuing socialization in the international system and its changing perception on sovereignty, national interests and international responsibility.