Iran 1978-1979: Reflections on Intelligence Failure
The failure of the US intelligence community to predict the Islamic Revolution in Iran offers lessons that remain relevant today in the aftermath of the ‘Arab Spring’.
The Weakening of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
The UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples is at best a compromise for indigenous peoples, at worst an attempt by states to maintain structures of injustice.
Uneven and Combined Development & World Systems Analysis: A Combined Approach
‘World-systems Analysis’ & ‘Uneven and Combined Development’ – when combined & further theorised – provide an illuminating approach to the global system’s functioning.
Sino-US Contestation over Regional Hegemony in the Asia-Pacific
Although a hegemonic transition remains unlikely within the next two decades, the Asia-Pacific will be a region of Sino-U.S. power competition and increasing instability.
The Effectiveness of Soft & Hard Power in Contemporary International Relations
‘Hard’ & ‘soft’ power are competing approaches to power in IR. Soft power is increasingly effective & hard power less so; ‘smart power’ offers a promising third strategy.
Negotiating the Convention on Cluster Munitions: Lessons Learnt
The Convention on Cluster Munitions is a model for future disarmament negotiations due to its patience and focus on humanitarianism and broad engagement.
The Dangers of Obama’s Cut-Price Foreign Policy
Obama’s foreign policy has neglected the long-term strategic dangers of making political decisions based on seeking short-term public, political, and economic stability.
What is the Principal Object of the International Legal System?
Individuals & organizations are increasingly gaining traction in a state-dominant international legal order, a piecemeal process that may result in a global constitution.
How International Is International Criminal Justice?
US reluctance to cooperate with the International Criminal Court, aside from selective cases, undermines efforts to build the organization’s legitimacy.
Do Drone Strike Assassinations Render Conceptions of ‘Just War’ Redundant?
War on Terror drone policies problematise classic Just War (JW) approaches. However, JW-inspired international law has the ability to ensure accountability.
