AN APPRAISAL OF THE UNITED NATIONS' CONCEPT OF RESPONSIBILITY TO PROTECT

This study appraised the United Nations (UN) concept of Responsibility to Protect (R2P) to determine its efficacy as a resolution mechanism for the prevention of war crimes with atrocity consequences. The outcome of the application of R2P through the adoption of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 1973 in Libya, was evaluated. Drawing on the unfavourable outcome of R2P, the study reviewed proposals for the prevention of war crimes and the protection of humanity, particularly the concept of responsibility while protecting, and proffered a way forward for the world to avert disastrous outcomes in preventing atrocity crimes. Findings showed that R2P helped promote the imperialist agenda of the United States (US) and its allies to the detriment of Libyans and the world at large. This study recommends that red lines need to be defined and avoided in future implementation of interventions in disastrous circumstances.