Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
Does humanitarian intervention work?
Position2 of 3

Humanitarian intervention is a moral responsibility

If violations of human rights are occurring, we have a moral obligation to intervene. Not every instance of humanitarian intervention will be identical, so we cannot assume it will be ineffective. Even if it does not work, we must try and help.

Supporting arguments · 2

  1. Humanitarianism creates a responsibility to protect
    Sovereignty is predicated on the social contract between the people and the state. If a leader of a nation violates this responsibility, other actors must step up to maintain the rights and safety of those at risk.
  2. Past humanitarian atrocities have gone unhindered
    The world learned a horrific truth once the realities of the Holocaust became clear. Despite calls for 'never again,' the world has yet to show a commitment to stopping mass atrocities.