Norms of protection

"A series of humanitarian tragedies in the 1990s (Somalia, 1992-1994; Rwanda, 1994; Srebrenica, 1995; Kosovo, 1999) demonstrated the failure of the international community to protect civilians in the context of complex emergencies. These brought to life two norms of protection -- Responsibility to Protect (R2P) and Protection of Civilians (POC) -- both deeply rooted in the empathy that human beings have for the suffering of innocent people. The norms have achieved high-level endorsement: R2P from the 2005 World Summit Outcome document (Art. 138-140) and POC from a series of Security Council resolutions. The two norms of protection were instrumental in adopting Security Council Resolutions 1970 and 1973 (Libya), and 1975 (Cote d'Ivoire) in 2011. Both norms raise concerns of misinterpretation and misuse. They are developing -- sometimes in parallel, sometimes diverging and sometimes converging -- with varying degrees of institutionalization and acceptance. This process is likely to continue for some time with successes and failures enhancing or retarding that development. This book engages in a profound comparative analysis of the norms and aims to serve policy-makers at various levels (national, regional and UN); practitioners with protective roles (force commanders, military trainers, strategists and humanitarian actors); academics and researchers (in international relations, law, political theory and ethics); civil society and R2P and POC advocates."--Page 4 of cover.