International Law à la russe
Multipolarity versus Universality
Angelika Nußberger, Lauri Mälksoo
Deutsche Fassung
Abstract
International law is supposed to provide universally binding norms for the peaceful coexistence of states with equal rights. For some years, Russia has been turning away from this principle of universality and trying to establish its own regional international law regime, referencing a “multipolar world order.” For Russia, human rights, democracy, and the rule of law are no longer the pillars of international law, which also influences domestic structures. Rather, Russia sees itself as a “historical great power” and is reclaiming absolute state sovereignty. The associated claim to non-interference in internal affairs takes precedence over normative commitments, especially when it comes to human rights issues. Russian politicians and diplomats consider treaty obligations and duties to be anachronistic and irrelevant. They justify this by saying that the contracting parties have adopted a hostile position toward Russia. Russia is taking an axe to international law.
(Osteuropa 7-9/2023, pp. 193–208)