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Intervening in conflicts

Guiding Question: Is war ever justifiable?. Intervening in conflicts. Discussion Points. Can you think of any circumstances that would justify military intervention in another country? Is it always best to be neutral in a conflict that does not concern you?. Laws of Going to War.

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Intervening in conflicts

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  1. Guiding Question: Is war ever justifiable? Intervening in conflicts

  2. Discussion Points • Can you think of any circumstances that would justify military intervention in another country? • Is it always best to be neutral in a conflict that does not concern you?

  3. Laws of Going to War • Appropriate Authority: War must be waged by governments, not individuals • Just Cause: Force can only be used to correct very serious public wrongdoings • Good Intention: Intention to go to war must be sincere without any hidden agendas • Last Resort: War must only be used when all other possible means (ex: negotiations) have been attempted • Proportionate Means: The means of intervention must suit the scope of the problem • Any potential problems with these “rules”?

  4. The Legitimacy of War • International Law states that: each country has the right to defend itself if it comes under attack, but does not permit a country to encroach on the sovereignty of other states.

  5. MILITARY INTERVENTION

  6. Military Intervention • International Law generally abides by the principle of Non-Interference HOWEVER three possible exceptions exist which would make it “legitimate” to have a military intervention:

  7. Military Intervention • A State requests help from another country/international organization – for ex: to put down a rebellion in the country. • The UN Security Council may authorize a military intervention to re-establish peace or for international security Ex: The First Gulf War (1990-’91)

  8. Military Intervention • Intervening on humanitarian grounds - there may be human rights violations which may call for action (ex: genocide, to provide humanitarian assistance) Ex: UN operations in Somalia (1992-’95)

  9. The Biafra-Nigerian War (1967-’70) • The Nigerian government wished to crush a separatist movement in the Biafra region • A number of observers viewed some serious humanitarian concerns (famine, civilian casualties, disease) • They put a media spotlight on the conflict and called on international intervention

  10. The Biafra-Nigerian War (1967-’70) • Although the international community did not intervene, the NON-INTERFERENCE principle came into serious question • Over 1 million people died, should the international community have stepped in earlier?

  11. Military Intervention • In the case of any intervention, there is greater legitimacy to the action if the United Nations as a group votes to take action rather than a few countries. Also a multinational force should be involved.

  12. NON-MILITARY INTERVENTION

  13. Non-Military Intervention If a country wishes to send a message to another state, they don’t have to use military force. Often there are other steps it can take: • Economic Sanctions: A country or group of countries may decide to not buy or sell certain products to another country. Weapons and diamond trade ban to Liberia Export ban to Belarus

  14. Non-Military Intervention • While this may be a good idea in certain instances, it is not always the case • Problem? Economic sanctions often hit civilians in the country hardest and not the ruling government. Also, the strategy generally favours richer nations over poorer ones.

  15. Effect of Sanctions • Ex: Post Gulf War, the sanctions placed on Iraq by the UN were meant to reduce the capacity for Iraq to develop chemical weapons and WMDs but led to harsh effects on the people, especially children...

  16. Effect of Sanctions • Took a major humanitarian toll • Lack of medicine • Economically devastated country, leading to higher unemployment, depression • Major health issues due to lack of clean water (chlorine manufacturing was banned) • Estimates range from 127,000-300,000 children died over the 7 years that followed the war due to sanctions on the country

  17. Non-Military Intervention • Diplomatic Sanctions: A state may impose stricter visa requirements on a country it is upset with or withdraw their ambassador from the country to show their displeasure. Ex: Kenya – Dubai conflict

  18. Role of Peacekeepers • Although the UN may lead forces to intervene militarily in a conflict zone, for the most part their role has been that of peacekeepers • These forces are often known as Blue Helmets and are made up of a group of multinational soldiers.

  19. Role of Peacekeepers • Their functions often include ensuring both sides respect peace treaties, ceasefire agreements, protecting civilian populations, and training of local authorities.

  20. Canada and Peacekeeping • Lester B. Pearson was a top Canadian diplomat in the 1940s-50s and later became PM of Canada • Was instrumental in the creation of the UN and is considered the Father of Blue Helmets • Won Nobel Peace Prize in 1957

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