ABSTRACT

The issue of military intervention in the internal affairs of states is central in a post-Cold War international system characterised by many dangerous, troubled, failed and even murderous states. Opponents of intervention stress the functions of sovereignty, while defenders rely on a mix of moral and pragmatic arguments. This article argues that military intervention is ethically justified when domestic turmoil threatens regional or international security and when massive violations of human rights occur. In most, but not necessarily all, cases the intervention should be organised or at least authorised by the UN Security Council, which should be given autonomous means and reorganised to enhance both its legitimacy and capacity for action. The concept of the 'national interest', most often cited by opponents of intervention as grounds for inaction, should be widened to incorporate ethical concerns.