Philosophical and Moral Justification of Humanitarian Intervention

Abstract

This paper examines the question of humanitarian
intervention and its justification from a philosophical and moral
standpoint. The concept of humanitarian intervention is highly
disputed and seemingly contrary to some well established
institutes and concepts. The main focus in this paper are
questions such as – does the sovereignty of a state offers
absolute protection that extends even in cases of mass violations
of human rights? Should we care about the suffering of others?
Why? What should we do in such cases? Can the use of force be
considered as a legitimate solution to a problem? If yes, under
what conditions?
The paper tries to deconstruct and offer answers to these
dilemmas. It concludes that under certain circumstances, it is
morally justified for a humanitarian intervention to be
undertaken.