International political conflict that directly affects and violates the basic human rights of the individuals within the affected area is a common occurrence across human history. This specific kind of political conflict that violates human rights on such a grand scale is a rapidly occurring issue between the 20th century and the current global political climate. These grand scale human rights violations require international response and intervention outside of the affected states. The purpose of this study is to evaluate and assess international conflict in its relation to human rights violations and how international response to these conflicts has developed over time, in order to determine an adequate response that prevents further or future conflicts. In order to obtain that conclusion, this study examines the events and responses of international conflicts of the 1990s such as the Rwandan Civil War and genocide and the current conflict between Israel and Palestine following their history of oppressive geopolitical relationship. Comparing the two different series of events and international responses we can evaluate trends within international justice and establish a sense of what went wrong. Therefore, paving a way to change the approach to international conflict and thus preventing such wide scale human rights violations in the future.
Abigail (Abi) Hawkins is a graduating senior majoring in political science and minoring in psychology. During her time at Salem, Abigail has been a two time Student Government Association Judicial Council Chair while also holding President and Vice President positions on the boards of Students for Reproductive Freedom and Salem College Pre-Law Society. In addition to her campus leadership positions, she has conducted specific research studies and obtained multiple internship positions, all centered around promoting and upholding principles of justice within law and policy.