INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS VERSUS STATE ACTORS IN LAW-MAKING IN THE INTERNATIONAL SYSTEM

Abstract

Globalisation, trade, poverty, and new challenges such as coronavirus, terrorism, and environmental degradation, among others are increasingly asserting non-state actors such as international organisations in international activities and making them more relevant than ever in contemporary times. These international organisations are contributing to international securities, co-operations, expert opinions, international lawmaking and solutions to global challenges. Arguably, these contributions are putting them in a competing pedestal with the state. Many states belong to different international organisations and by virtue of such membership, surrender part of their powers to international organisations. Based on the forgoing, this paper questions whether international organisations, through the lens of World Health Organisation (WHO), are taking priority in international affairs and replacing states as primary actors in the international system. This paper argues that despite the prominence of international organisations, states are resisting international organisations and guarding their sovereignty. It is recommended that rather than such competition and conflicts among states and international organisations, more co-operation among states and international organisations are necessary for addressing contemporary challenges.