Colonial legacies, dehumanization, and international law: analysis of the Gaza genocide. Historical foundations, theoretical perspective, and legal implications
Colonial legacies, dehumanization, and international law: analysis of the Gaza genocide. Historical foundations, theoretical perspective, and legal implications
Date
2024
Authors
Celenza, Fabiola
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
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Abstract
The roots of the plausible genocide in Palestine lie in more than a century of colonial
history that has profoundly shaped the region. Indeed, the war between Israel and Hamas
since Oct. 7 is not an isolated phenomenon, but the result of colonial legacies and power
dynamics. This research will analyze the influence of colonial legacies in international
response and implementation of law in the alleged genocide in Gaza. In addition,
theoretical perspectives on dehumanization and international law are analyzed to assess
how these frameworks address human rights violations against Palestinians. The
hypothesis posits that historical and colonial power dynamics shape international
reactions and legal measures. Using critical analysis of historical texts, official
statements, and media reports, the study assesses the role of colonial history and
dehumanization in the war. It finds that these factors significantly affect international
responses, exposing systemic biases and shortcomings in legal frameworks. Despite
existing human rights instruments, legal responses are often hindered by political and
historical influences. To improve justice and accountability in Gaza genocide, the
international community must address these colonial legacies and strive to decolonize
legal and diplomatic frameworks.
Keywords: Israeli-Palestinian question, Gaza, genocide, colonialism, human rights
violations, international law, dehumanization.
Description
Second semester University: University College Dublin
Keywords
Arab-Israeli conflict,
Israel,
Palestine,
genocide,
colonialism,
human rights violations