The UK’s Responsibility to Protect: Practice versus Aspiration (/researchblog/2018/7/10/the-uks-responsibility-to-protect-practice-versus-aspiration)

This blog post is based on broader PhD research, which examined the UK’s commitment to, and understanding of R2P in the context of Syrian refugees fleeing mass atrocities. As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, it is important to look at how powerful states like the UK interpret and practice R2P. This post addresses to what extent the UK has fulfilled its R2P, as promised in 2005, in light of the ongoing mass atrocities in Syria and what has been perceived as the international community’s failure to respond effectively. First, R2P is defined and its requirements are analysed in order to separate the norm’s practical requirements from its aspirational goals. Then, R2P is discussed in the UK policy context. As this piece consistently highlights how the UK’s objectives in Syria have helped undermine the protection of Syrians, the conclusion follows with some policy recommendations