ABSTRACT
This chapter considers some aspects under the following different headings: an historical perspective of the discovery of the decisive role the responsibility principle is likely to play in international regulation; and deficiencies in international law and the need to take a broader vision of the international regulation in order to fill the gaps. International law should be regarded as one integral part of a more comprehensive global governance paradigm. The trend in international affairs is focused on national interests of nation states. The transforming regulation of transnational corporations demonstrates elements of responsibility. The two pillars of international regulation upholding the international community are in jeopardy, as they are incapable of addressing the major issues of the relationships between humanity and biosphere. The chapter discusses the ability of the civil and penal laws to deal with damage caused to the climate.
