Rethinking the responsibility to protect (R2O) norm in promoting peace and security: Why in Libya and not Syria?

Abstract

The Responsibility to Protect (R2P) principle remains a useful norm for promoting peace and security and a call for international humanitarian intervention. The research traces the evolution of the responsibility to protect doctrine as a basis for humanitarian intervention. The study analyses the credibility of the responsibility to protect principle by evaluating its implementation in response to humanitarian crisis. The study sought to explore the meaning and rationale, of the responsibility to protect and also investigate the variance in the application of the R2P doctrine in Libya and Syria. The research employed qualitative data collection techniques such as documentary reviews and interviews. In view of the inconsistence application of the R2P the study notes that the UNSC has been compromised by national interest of the UNSC members and application of the doctrine. The research further notes that the R2P doctrine was strengthened in Libya in 2013 and undermined in Syria by the failure of the UNSC to come to consensus on the ongoing Syrian crisis. It is agreed that the R2P doctrine lies an inherent weakness in that other members of the UN are incapacitated to take action. and should the UNSC fails to act where crimes against humanity have been committed. The study recommends for the consistent application of the R2P and for the UNSC not to consider national interest in their interpretation of the R2P doctrine.