Forced human displacement, the third world and international law: A TWAlL perspective

• Published in: Melbourne journal of international law Vol. 20; no. 1; pp. 248 - 276
• Main Authors: Jason von Meding, Samuel Berhanu Woldemariam
• Format: Journal Article
• Published: 01.07.2019
• Subjects: Displacement (Psychology); Humanitarian law; International law; Legal status, laws, etc; Protection; Refugees
• ISSN: 1444-8602

Forced human displacement is a growing global concern. Its impacts are particularly felt in the Global South. The problem festers within an international legal environment that lacks both adequate and responsive rules, and strategies to address its root causes. International law, often looked upon to provide solutions to global challenges, has serious limitations when it comes to the issue of forced displacement. This article uses Third World Approaches to International Law ('TWAIL') to analyse the relationships between forced human displacement, international law and what TWAIL describes as 'the Third World'. This approach is relevant because much of Africa, Asia and the Middle East were under colonial rule when international responses and rules regulating forced displacement were developed in the early and mid-20th century. Following decolonisation, the newly independent states acceded to an international legal framework that had been shaped without their input. This 'non-inclusiveness' within international law of Third World voices and interests contributes to stark development inequalities. Accordingly, forced displacement remains the visible manifestation of the failure of the international community to address its root causes. The Syrian refugee crisis and the recent 'caravan' originating in Central America are powerful examples. The authors argue that a lasting solution should aim for a reformed international law that is comprehensive and preventive rather than narrowly tailored to advance politically expedient positions or to promote unilateral gatekeeping. A robust engagement with the progress of the Global Compacts on Refugees and Migration and the Sustainable Development Goals provides such opportunity to appropriately address forced displacement.