Exploring the Principle of Non-Intervention: New Book by Swiss IHL Chair Marco Roscini

26 February 2024

In his new book International Law and the Principle of Non-Intervention. History, Theory, and Interactions with Other Principles (Oxford University Press), our Swiss IHL Chair Professor Marco Roscini dissects the principle of non-intervention – a core principle of international law and a pillar of international relations.

‘The determination of this principle’s exact content has remained, until now, an enigma. With this new book, I precisely explore what constitutes an 'intervention' in international law and when interventions are unlawful’ explains Professor Roscini.

Drawing on an extensive array of primary documents and examining over 200 intervention cases spanning from the 18th century to the modern era – including those in Libya, Mali, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, South Sudan, and The Gambia –, the book provides a meticulous analysis of this principle and its connections to fundamental notions of international law such as sovereignty, the use of force, self-determination, and human rights protection.

The last chapter of the book also explores this principle in the information age and discusses cyber operations as a new means of coercion in the domestic affairs of states – a subject Professor Roscini addresses in his research as IHL Chair at the Geneva Academy.

‘This new book will be a key resource for academics, diplomats, and legal professionals seeking clarity on this core principle of international law. The chapters exploring the interactions of the principle of non-intervention with the principle of self-determination and the respect for international human rights law and international humanitarian law are of particular interest for our students and community’ underlines our Director Professor Gloria Gaggioli.

Launch at the Geneva Academy in the Fall

Professor Roscini will launch his book at the Geneva Academy this fall.

MORE ON THIS THEMATIC AREA

ECOSOC Panel United Nations News

Dr Erica Harper Warns of Dangerous Global Conflict Surge at UN ECOSOC Panel

23 June 2025

Our Head of Research and Policy Studies, Dr Erica Harper, spoke at a United Nations Economic and Social Council panel on June 16th, focused on Humanitarian Aid Under Siege.

Read more

IHL in Focus Spot Report News

Spot Report – Water Crisis in War and Under Occupation: Current Israeli Policy and Practice in Occupied Palestinian Territory Under International Humanitarian Law

16 June 2025

The Geneva Academy has published a new spot report analysing Israeli policy and practice relating to water in the Occupied Palestinian Territory through the lens of IHL.

Read more

Warzone Event

Advanced IHL Seminar for Academics and Policymakers

25-29 August 2025, 09:00-17:30

Co-hosted with the ICRC, this event aims to enhance the capacity of academics to teach and research international humanitarian law, while also equipping policymakers with an in-depth understanding of ongoing legal debates.

Read more

Screenshot of the RULAC webpage Project

Rule of Law in Armed Conflicts (RULAC)

Started in May 2007

The Rule of Law in Armed Conflicts project (RULAC) is a unique online portal that identifies and classifies all situations of armed violence that amount to an armed conflict under international humanitarian law (IHL). It is primarily a legal reference source for a broad audience, including non-specialists, interested in issues surrounding the classification of armed conflicts under IHL.

Read more

Neutrotechology Project

Neurotechnology and Human Rights

Started in August 2023

This project addresses the human rights implications stemming from the development of neurotechnology for commercial, non-therapeutic ends, and is based on a partnership between the Geneva Academy, the Geneva University Neurocentre and the UN Human Rights Council Advisory Committee. 

Read more

Cover of the 2023 Geneva Academy Annual Report Publication

Annual Report 2023

published on July 2024

Read more