The transnational approach relativizes the role traditionally assigned to the state, without heralding its demise, disposes of the spatial factor without denying territorial realities and introduces a global perspective without underestimating analytical method. Discusses one of the categories of transnational forces: what are usually known as 'international nongovernmental organizations' (INGOs) or 'trans-national associations'. (RSM)
Examines the purposes of punishment and reveals that only some are understandable when a model of means-end rationality is used, suggesting that the element of the nonrational also plays an important role in international sanctions. (Abstract amended)
An analysis of how international nongovernment organizations (INGOs) have come to modify or challenge the international system. The introduction of transnational forces -- ie, nonstate entities of a social, political, scientific, religious, environmental, or other nature -- into the study of international relations does not merely shift or cut across boundaries, but calls for a new, intrinsicially pluralistic approach. The interplay of factors & actors outside the conventional frame of reference of territorial sovereign states exposes a multipolar world that encompasses a variety of intersecting sociopolitical "forces of attraction" of a predominantly economic, ethnic, or religious character. The transnational approach particularly emphasizes three aspects of nonstate entities: their historical precedence over the state system; INGOs' role as the subjects & makers of international law; & the latter's effective scope of action in the contemporary world, either as shapers of opinion, as autonomous actors, or in competition with states. As central components of a potential international civil society, their transnationalization poses the question of the universal character of the state, & hence of civil society, & the groupings that structure it across national borders. 2 Illustrations, 41 References. AA
Since 1965, when it decided to create a Secretariat, the Commonwealth has increasingly been seen as a formal international organization, rather than the informal family or community of like-minded states that characterized its earlier self-identification. Notwithstanding very modest assumptions about what its role should be, the Secretariat itself has done much to encourage this tendency. Yet, given its lack of both a constitution & very clear functions, there is still room to question what kind of IGO the Commonwealth is & whether it can find a distinctive niche in the ever-expanding universe of IGOs. At different times since 1965, the Commonwealth has assumed five different kinds of identities. It is argued here that a combination of three of these, together with what remains of its community traditions, could provide it with a valuable, if limited, role in an era of globalization. Adapted from the source document.
Examines Security Council decisions which disregard customary principles of international law, and political implications of the International Court of Justice's status as an independent judicial body.
Explores the relevance of customary rules of international humanitarian law & the mechanisms through which they are created. International humanitarian law adopted in Geneva in 1864 was based on customary rules generated by practices adopted in previous wars. In spite of extensive codification of humanitarian law by numerous treaties, treaty law does not adequately cover today's armed conflicts, especially those that are not international in scope. Customary international law is said to have the potential to fill existing holes in treaty law resulting from a lack of substantive coverage or ratification. Situations in which customary international law could be useful, & the methodology used to institute rules of customary international law, are described. Research on customary rules of international humanitarian law conducted by the International Conference of the Red Cross & Red Crescent identifies 200 basic rules found to be customary in today's noninternational armed conflicts. These rules will be included in a code of customary international law that will be binding upon parties in international & noninternational armed conflicts. J. Lindroth
