Effectiveness and Legitimacy of International Organisations: the case of the United Nations Security Council and International Court of Justice in addressing the crisis in Gaza

This thesis investigates the impact of effectiveness on legitimacy within the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), focusing on their roles in addressing the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Employing institutionalism theory and a mixed-methods approach that combines comparative institutional study, public perceptions analysis and semi-structured interviews, the study highlights the challenges and areas for reform to enhance effectiveness and legitimacy. The findings reveal that the Council’s effectiveness is hindered by structural flaws, such as limited representation and permanent members’ veto power, which negatively affect its legitimacy, as trust in its capacity to maintain peace and security declines. The Court exhibits procedural rigour and higher legitimacy due to its impartiality and adherence to international law. Nevertheless, reliance on voluntary compliance and the protracted nature of fulfilling its mandate limits its practical...Show moreThis thesis investigates the impact of effectiveness on legitimacy within the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), focusing on their roles in addressing the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Employing institutionalism theory and a mixed-methods approach that combines comparative institutional study, public perceptions analysis and semi-structured interviews, the study highlights the challenges and areas for reform to enhance effectiveness and legitimacy. The findings reveal that the Council’s effectiveness is hindered by structural flaws, such as limited representation and permanent members’ veto power, which negatively affect its legitimacy, as trust in its capacity to maintain peace and security declines. The Court exhibits procedural rigour and higher legitimacy due to its impartiality and adherence to international law. Nevertheless, reliance on voluntary compliance and the protracted nature of fulfilling its mandate limits its practical impact. The study underscores the interplay between effectiveness and legitimacy, showing that procedural fairness can sustain legitimacy among intentional community. Recommendations include expanding the Council’s representation, revising veto power, and enhancing ICJ enforcement capacities. By addressing these challenges, the study advocates for a more equitable international order capable of maintaining peace and justice in a multiplex world.Show less

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Effectiveness and Legitimacy of International Organisations: the case of the United Nations Security Council and International Court of Justice in addressing the crisis in Gaza