Legal Definitions - collective measure

A collective measure in international law refers to a coordinated action or set of actions taken by two or more countries working together to achieve a shared objective. These actions can be organized informally for a specific situation or through established international organizations.

• Example 1: International Climate Agreement

  Imagine several nations signing and implementing a global treaty aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Each country commits to specific targets and policies, such as investing in renewable energy or protecting forests, all contributing to the overarching goal of mitigating climate change.

  This illustrates a collective measure because multiple countries are undertaking coordinated activities (implementing policies, meeting targets) to achieve an agreed-upon end (combating climate change). This is often facilitated through institutionalized associations like the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

• Example 2: Humanitarian Disaster Response

  Following a devastating tsunami in a coastal nation, multiple countries dispatch emergency medical teams, provide financial aid, and send supplies like food and shelter. They coordinate their efforts through international aid agencies to ensure resources are distributed effectively and reach those most in need.

  Here, a collective measure is demonstrated by several countries working together (sending aid, coordinating efforts) to achieve a shared goal (providing humanitarian relief and recovery). This often occurs in an ad hoc manner in response to a crisis, even if supported by existing international frameworks.

• Example 3: Economic Sanctions Against a Rogue State

  When a particular nation repeatedly violates international human rights laws, a coalition of other countries decides to impose economic sanctions, such as restricting trade, freezing assets of government officials, and limiting financial transactions. Their aim is to pressure the offending nation to change its policies.

  This represents a collective measure because more than one country (the coalition) is undertaking a coordinated activity (imposing sanctions) to achieve an agreed-upon end (influencing the rogue state's behavior and upholding international law). This can be an ad hoc agreement among like-minded nations or a decision made through an international body.