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Reciprocal legitimation: Reframing the problem of international legitimacy

Author

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  • Allen Buchanan

    (Duke University, USA, allenb@duke.edu)

Abstract

Theorizing about the legitimacy of international institutions usually begins with a framing assumption according to which the legitimacy of the state is understood solely in terms of the relationship between the state and its citizens, without reference to the effects of state power on others. In contrast, this article argues that whether a state is legitimate vis-a-vis its own citizens depends upon whether its exercise of power respects the human rights of people in other states. The other main conclusions are as follows. First, a state’s participation in international institutions can contribute to its legitimacy in several ways. Second, when international institutions contribute to the legitimacy of states, their doing so can contribute to their own legitimacy. Third, a theory of international legitimacy ought to recognize reciprocal legitimation between states and international institutions.

Suggested Citation

  • Allen Buchanan, 2011. "Reciprocal legitimation: Reframing the problem of international legitimacy," Politics, Philosophy & Economics, , vol. 10(1), pages 5-19, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:pophec:v:10:y:2011:i:1:p:5-19
    DOI: 10.1177/1470594X09351958
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    Cited by:

    1. Biegoń, Dominika & Gronau, Jennifer & Schmidtke, Henning, 2013. "Magic mirror on the wall, who in the world is legitimate after all? Legitimacy claims of international institutions," TranState Working Papers 169, University of Bremen, Collaborative Research Center 597: Transformations of the State.

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