The Right to International Security and Peace in Light of Human Dignity: Challenges and Solutions (An Approach from International Law and Islam)

The recurring outbreak of wars and armed conflicts, along with the growing threats of the use of force in international relations, has brought devastating material and moral consequences for humanity. These developments have underscored the fundamental need and urgent demand for international peace and security and the right to live within such a framework. In pursuit of this goal, scholars and legal thinkers have sought viable pathways to its realization. Efforts such as the prohibition of war and use of force in the United Nations Charter, the limitation and erosion of absolute state sovereignty through the formation of international organizations, and the adoption of human rights conventions and treaties, constitute key developments in this regard. Additionally, the emphasis on the peaceful resolution of international disputes and the encouragement of international and economic cooperation can also be understood within this framework. While these measures have, to some extent, succeeded in distancing parts of the international community from the shadow of war and conflict and in promoting respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, the current turbulent state of the world demonstrates that contemporary humanity still grapples with an environment hostile to peace and security, along with the persistent threats and destructive consequences of war and conflict. Yet, one of the few uncontested shared interests in today’s world is the existence of international security and peace. Indeed, it seems that these constitute not only a necessary condition but perhaps the only viable chance for the survival of the international community in the face of numerous and growing global threats. Therefore, the necessity of peace must be understood as an objective, immediate, and permanent imperative. Despite this, the right to live in a safe and peaceful environment—where individuals and nations can lead a dignified life—faces major obstacles and challenges. The central question this article seeks to address is: From the perspectives of international law and Islamic teachings, what strategies are available to realize the right to international security and peace in today’s chaotic world, and how can the barriers and challenges to its realization be overcome? In response, this article argues that the realization of the right to international security and peace, and overcoming the challenges it faces, is possible through upholding and respecting human dignity. To evaluate this hypothesis, the article employs a documentary-analytical method, exploring the feasibility of establishing the right to international security and peace through the lens of human dignity, from the dual perspectives of international law and Islam. The findings suggest that human dignity, as a foundational principle in both international law and Islamic thought, provides a solid theoretical basis for the realization of the right to international security and peace. Furthermore, it offers a framework for reforming the unjust structures and dynamics of the international order and confronting the political and economic roots of war, violence, and conflict. Ultimately, such an approach can pave the way for a just and peaceful international system.