Humanitarian Intervention: Confronting the Contradictions

by Michael Newman

Some view humanitarian intervention as little more than a rationale for Wester neo-imperialism, while others see intervention as a major weapon in the crusade for democracy and individual rights. Michael Newman advances a different position. Through a critique of current international policies and an examination of their impact on developing and transitional countries, Newman argues that military intervention often works against efforts to establish a sustainable peace. While he endorses a "responsibility to protect" those whose rights are compromised by the state, Newman interprets protection much more radically than other theorists, combining policy with a conception of humanitarianism that accounts for poverty and inequality. Humanitarian Intervention will resonate with those who both oppose recent Anglo-American foreign policy and agree that "something must be done" to save victims of atrocity. By bringing together a range of disciplines, Newman provides an invaluable resource for students of international relations, contemporary history, law, politics, and peace and conflict studies, as well as those who work with NGOs.

Genres: International Affairs, International Development

256 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

Emeritus Professor of Politics and
Jean Monnet Professor of European Studies

His research interests have always been rather wide-ranging, including the study of the Left, political biography, and the European Union. More recently, he has moved into the area of peace and conflict.