THE CONFLICT BETWEEN THE NON-INTERVENTION PRINCIPLE AND THE RESPONSIBILITY TO PROTECT: THE CASE OF SYRIA

Abstract

This work explores the conflict between the principle of non-intervention and the Responsibility to Protect doctrine, using the Syrian case as a paradigmatic example. Through both theoretical and empirical analysis, it examines how these two international norms¿one safeguarding state sovereignty, the other promoting humanitarian intervention¿clash in the face of mass atrocity crimes. The study of Syria¿s civil war, international responses, and key actors reveals the limitations of international law when confronted with geopolitical interests. Ultimately, it questions the effectiveness of the global system in protecting civilian populations and highlights the gap between legal principles and political realities.