2013年-CEPS欧洲政策研究中心_The_Responsibility_to_Protect_and_Regime_Change_2页_87kb

The Responsibility to Protect and Regime Change Summary

Core Content

The Responsibility to Protect (R2P) is a normative principle introduced by the United Nations in 2005 at the World Summit, following major atrocities such as the Central African genocide. It emphasizes that states have a responsibility to protect their populations from four specific crimes: genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity. If a state fails to fulfill this responsibility, the international community has a duty to intervene, primarily through the UN Security Council, in accordance with the UN Charter, particularly Chapter VII.

Main Views

• R2P as a New Norm: R2P represents a significant shift in international norms, allowing for the justification of forceful intervention in internal state affairs when necessary to protect civilians.
• Conflict Between Norms: There is a notable divide between Western countries and the 'Rest' (particularly Russia and China) regarding the primacy of R2P versus the principle of non-interference.
• Operationalization in Libya: The 2011 Libyan intervention, authorized by UN Security Council Resolution 1973, is the most prominent example of R2P being applied. This resolution was supported by the African Union and Arab League, which helped overcome Russian and Chinese objections.
• Post-Libya Criticism: Russia and China criticized the Libya intervention, arguing that it had escalated into regime change, despite the clear intent to protect civilians.
• Syria as a New Test Case: The situation in Syria has brought R2P back into focus. The Arab League, supported by the West, has called for regime change and imposed sanctions, while Russia has resisted such actions, fearing Western overreach.

Key Information

• R2P Principle: Governments are responsible for protecting their citizens; if they fail, the international community may intervene.
• Libya Case: Resolution 1973 authorized NATO to enforce a no-fly zone and support rebel forces, leading to the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi.
• Russia and China's Stance: They prioritize non-interference and have used their veto power to block R2P resolutions, especially in Syria.
• Syria's Situation: The Arab League and the West have increasingly aligned in their support for regime change, citing evidence of crimes against humanity and civilian casualties.
• Russian Naval Deployment: Russia's deployment of warships to Syria, including the aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov, has been interpreted as a strategic move, not necessarily in support of Assad, but to assert its influence in the region.
• Regional Cooperation: The Arab League and the West have demonstrated a growing willingness to act collectively to protect populations, despite differences in approach and speed.

Conclusion

The R2P doctrine has evolved from a theoretical concept to a practical tool for intervention, particularly in cases of severe humanitarian crises. While the West and the 'Rest' have historically been at odds over the principle of non-interference, the Libya and Syria cases have shown a convergence of interests in protecting civilians. However, the principle remains contentious, with ongoing debates about its limits and the potential for misuse. The Arab League's actions in Syria, coupled with Western support, indicate a renewed commitment to R2P, even as Russia continues to challenge its application.