What are the international rights and obligations of states?

International law governs the relations between nations and is enforceable through the actions of states. Most international legal obligations are found in agreements and treaties between states. Generally, international law obligates states to respect the sovereignty and integrity of other states, to observe treaty commitments, and to settle disputes peacefully. All states are expected to uphold the core principles of international law, such as pacta sunt servanda – meaning that contracts must be kept. Additionally, countries are responsible for ensuring that their own citizens abide by international law. At a more basic level, international law requires states to respect the principles of non-interference, non-aggression, and non-use of force. States must refrain from using their military forces to intervene militarily in other countries and instead negotiate peacefully with other states or turn to international organizations for assistance. They are also obligated to protect the human rights of all people within their own boundaries. States are equally responsible for both their own rights and obligations. They must abide by their obligations and respect the rights of other countries. This includes participating in multilateral negotiations and decision-making, upholding existing international law, and working towards universal disarmament. In addition, each state has a right to self-defence if it is attacked by another state. Overall, international law is essential for the peace and stability of the international community. As such, states are obligated to comply with the rules of international law and to respect the rights of other states.

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What are the international rights and obligations of states?

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