Constructivism and International Organizations (I.O.s)

1. Key Themes

1. Constructivism and Norms:

   • Norms are socially constructed rules that guide behavior and define "what ought to be done."

   • Example: Sovereignty, human rights, and international law are norms that shape state behavior.

2. Legitimacy in I.O.s:

   • Legitimacy is a key norm in I.O.s, ensuring compliance and respect for rules.

   • Example: The UNSC’s legitimacy comes from its ability to enforce international law and maintain global security.

3. Symbolic Power:

   • Symbols (e.g., flags, emblems, protocols) represent legitimate authority and are sources of power.

   • Example: The UN’s Blue Helmets symbolize peacekeeping and global legitimacy.

4. UNSC and International Law:

   • The UNSC creates and enforces international law through binding resolutions.

   • Example: UNSC resolutions on Iraq (1991) and Lebanon (2006) shaped global responses to conflicts.

5. Contestation and De-Legitimization:

   • States or actors may challenge the legitimacy of I.O.s when their interests are threatened.

   • Example: Russia and China often veto UNSC resolutions that conflict with their interests.

2. Key Concepts

• Norms: Socially constructed rules that guide behavior and define "what ought to be done."

• Legitimacy: The perception that an institution or action is valid and authoritative.

• Symbolic Power: The ability of symbols (e.g., flags, emblems) to represent and enforce authority.

• UNSC Resolutions: Binding decisions by the UNSC that become international law.

• De-Legitimization: Challenging the authority or legitimacy of an institution (e.g., the UN).

3. Key Thinkers and Their Arguments

• Ian Hurd:

  • Legitimacy is central to the power of I.O.s, as it ensures compliance and respect for rules.

  • Example: The UNSC’s legitimacy comes from its ability to enforce international law.

• Constructivists:

  • Norms and ideas shape state behavior and the functioning of I.O.s.

  • Example: The taboo against nuclear weapons is a norm that influences state behavior.

4. Examples of Constructivism in I.O.s

• UNSC Resolutions:

  • 1991 Gulf War: UNSC authorized force to expel Iraq from Kuwait, showcasing the power of legitimacy.

  • 2006 Lebanon War: UNSC Resolution 1701 authorized peacekeeping, reflecting elite pacts and stakeholder interests.

• Symbolic Power:

  • The UN’s Blue Helmets symbolize peacekeeping and global legitimacy.

  • The International Court of Justice (ICJ) rulings shape state behavior (e.g., Putin’s travel restrictions due to ICC rulings).

• De-Legitimization:

  • Russia and China often veto UNSC resolutions that conflict with their interests, challenging the UN’s legitimacy.