Non-State Actors and the Ethics of International Relations

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to explore the role of non-state
actors in shaping the ethical principles for the regulation of
international relations. In contrast to other theories that take
states to be the main subjects of international relations, the
paper discusses the importance of the perspective of non-
-state actors – non-governmental organizations, international
organizations and corporations – in creating an international
normative framework. By using the model of contemporary
contractualist theories in which states and non-state actors
are deciding on ethical principles, the fuller understanding of
the role and significance of human rights in international
relations arises.