International Conflicts : Striking a Balance between International Law and International Politics

The outbreaks and persistence of inter-state or international conflicts call into question the efficacy of international law and international politics as instruments for the maintenance of peace, order and stability in the relations between countries. This paper argues that the resolution of international conflicts and the realisation of lasting peace can only be accomplished when a balance between international law and international politics is secured. It discusses the relationship between the two systems and the practical ways to guarantee an equilibrium between them