Impact of international organisations and the significance of states. (Edexcel A-Level Politics): Revision Notes

34.3.3 Impact of international organisations and the significance of states.

Introduction

The debate between liberalism and realism in international relations extends deeply into the roles and impacts of international organisations and the significance of states in the global system. These two theories offer opposing views on how much influence international organisations wield and how critical the sovereignty and power of individual states remain in maintaining global order.

Realism: The Primacy of States and Scepticism of International Organisations

State Sovereignty and Power

• Self-Help and Power Politics: Realists argue that because the international system lacks a central authority, states operate in a self-help environment where they must rely on their own capabilities to secure their interests. Power, particularly military power, is the ultimate means of ensuring security and influence.

Skepticism of International Organizations

• Limited Impact of International Organisations: Realists are sceptical about the effectiveness of international organisations, viewing them as tools used by powerful states to further their own interests rather than as independent actors capable of enforcing global rules. According to this view, organisations like the United Nations, the World Trade Organisation, or the International Monetary Fund are often dominated by the interests of the most powerful states.
• Hierarchy in International Society: Realists perceive the international system as inherently hierarchical, where powerful states set the rules, and international organisations reflect this power dynamic. They argue that these organisations are unlikely to act against the interests of dominant states and that their influence is limited when these interests conflict with global norms or justice.
• Conservative View on Global Governance: Traditional conservative thought, which aligns closely with realism, is cautious of international organisations' growing influence. This caution stems from a desire to protect national sovereignty and prevent the accumulation of power by international bodies, which could undermine state authority and autonomy.

States vs. International Organizations

• Realist Perspective on International Law: While realists acknowledge the existence of international law and institutions, they argue that these are often ineffective in curbing state behaviour, particularly when it conflicts with national interests. The realist view is that states will comply with international norms only when it suits their interests or when they are coerced by more powerful states.

Liberalism: The Power of International Organisations and the Evolving Role of States

Cooperation and International Governance

• Collective Security and Multilateralism: Liberals emphasise the importance of multilateralism and collective security, where international organisations like the United Nations or NATO work to prevent conflicts through diplomacy, peacekeeping, and sanctions. These institutions provide a platform for dialogue and collective action, reducing the likelihood of unilateral action and conflict.

Significance of International Law and Institutions

• Kantian Influence: Immanuel Kant's vision of a "pacific federation" of states is central to liberal thought. Kant argued that democratic governments, economic interdependence, and international institutions could collectively overcome the security dilemma and create a peaceful international order. Liberals believe that international organisations embody this Kantian triangle, promoting democracy, trade, and law to maintain global stability.
• Grotius and International Law: Hugo Grotius, an early advocate of international law, believed that a system of rules governing state behaviour could reduce conflict and promote justice. Liberals view international law as a crucial tool for regulating state actions, protecting human rights, and preventing wars through the principles of just war and international justice.

Globalization and the Changing Role of States

• Economic Interdependence: Joseph Nye's theory of complex interdependence highlights the increasing importance of economic ties and globalisation in shaping state behaviour. As states become more economically interconnected, the cost of conflict rises, making war less attractive and cooperation more necessary. International organisations facilitate this interdependence by creating frameworks for trade, investment, and economic governance.
• Evolving State Sovereignty: While states remain important, liberals argue that their role is evolving in a globalised world. International organisations increasingly share sovereignty with states, particularly in areas like trade, environment, and human rights. This shared sovereignty reflects the growing recognition that global challenges require collective action, which is often best managed through international institutions.

Challenges and Resistance

• Realist Critique of Liberal Optimism: Despite the liberal emphasis on cooperation, recent global events, such as the rise of nationalism, democratic regression, and non-state terrorism, challenge the liberal vision. Realists point to these issues as evidence that states remain the primary actors, driven by self-interest and power politics, with international organisations often powerless in the face of state resistance.

Conclusion: The Balance Between State Power and International Organisations

• Realist View: Realists maintain that states are the most significant actors in international relations, with international organisations having limited impact unless backed by powerful states. They argue that the anarchic nature of the international system ensures that state sovereignty and power politics will continue to dominate global affairs.
• Liberal View: Liberals believe that international organisations are essential for managing global issues, promoting peace, and fostering cooperation. They argue that while states remain important, their role is increasingly intertwined with international institutions, which are crucial for addressing the complex challenges of a globalised world.