Intervention*

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Nation‐states have always ‘intervened’ (often a euphemism for ‘invasion') in the affairs of others. Intervention, according to its Charter, is now the exclusive role of the United Nations, when authorized by the Security Council. The Charter excludes the UN from intervening in matters within the domestic jurisdiction of member states. However, even national sovereignty can be set aside if it affects the duty of the Security Council to preserve international peace and security and prevent genocide. Wherever possible, though, ‘intervention’ should consist in preventive diplomacy and correcting causes of conflict such as ethnic tension and poverty. But in the final analysis the UN exists to uphold the rights of peoples, and all of us have the obligation to halt or prevent injustice and suffering.