International Institutions and National Policies

Introduces an alternative framework to explain how international institutions influence national policies.

Xinyuan Dai (Author)

9780521696319, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 11 October 2007

200 pages, 10 tables
22.8 x 15.2 x 1.5 cm, 0.348 kg

'Dai's analysis provides a new way to think about the mechanisms linking institutions and state policy, and should simulate further study of the role of domestic actors in the enforcement of international agreements.' The Review of International Organizations

The proliferation of international institutions and their impact has become a central issue in international relations. Why do countries comply with international agreements and how do international institutions influence national policies? Most theories focus on the extent to which international institutions can wield 'carrots and sticks' directly in their relations with states. Xinyuan Dai presents an alternative framework in which they influence national policies indirectly by utilizing non-state actors (NGOs, social movements) and empowering domestic constituencies. In this way, even weak international institutions that lack 'carrots and sticks' may have powerful effects on states. Supported by empirical studies of environmental politics, human rights and economic and security issues, this book sheds fresh light on how and why international institutions matter. It will be of interest to students, scholars and policymakers in both international relations and international law.

1. Introduction
2. The study of international institutions
3. Monitoring arrangements
4. Compliance mechanisms
5. Power of weak international institutions
6. Conclusion
Appendix A. Formal solutions
Appendix B. Ranking of signatory countries in LRTAP.

Subject Areas: Public international law [LBB], International law [LB], International relations [JPS]