NSpell Checkever Again a Conceptual Framework for United States Policy on Humanitarian Intervention to Prevent Genocide

摘要

Humanitarian intervention is a broad concept that ranges from simple humanitarian assistance to the more complex peace enforcement operations. The application of military force to prevent genocide is rooted in peace enforcement operations. The question that has been continuously debated is: 'Should military force be used to prevent or arrest genocide in places where the United States does not have vital strategic interests.' This paper has a twofold purpose: first, to provide an in-depth analysis of current U.S. humanitarian intervention policy for the prevention of genocide; and second, to provide a conceptual framework for delineating feasible policy and military response options. The thesis of this work is that in the case of genocide, our 'broad' national interests coupled with our national values generate a synergy that demands action even in situations where the United States does not have clear 'vital' interests. The policy analysis examines how preventing genocide is a moral obligation entrenched in our national values and further cemented by international agreements like The Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. Military response options are viewed in the context of what might have been done to prevent genocide in Rwanda. In short, our national values, interests, and objectives coupled with our international commitments portray us as a nation with noble intentions; i.e., a nation willing to commit to do what is right to protect human rights. To live up to such high expectations, clear comprehensive policy is needed. Pledges of 'never again' are hollow without planning, preparation, resources, and political commitment.