Human Rights and International Politics: From Universalism to Relativism

Abstract

This research discusses the dynamics between universalism and relativism in the application of human rights in the international world, focusing on current phenomena that affect global politics. Universalism carries the principle that human rights are absolute and applicable in all countries, but in practice it often clashes with state sovereignty and national interests. In contrast, relativism emphasizes that the application of human rights must be adapted to the context of local culture and traditions. Through case studies such as the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar, the oppression of Uighurs in China, and the COVID-19 pandemic, this research shows that many states use relativism to defend domestic policies that are considered human rights violations by the international community. In addition, the role of international organizations such as the UN and Amnesty International in maintaining universal human rights standards is limited by the political power of large states. The conclusion of this study is that although universalism remains the basic framework of international human rights, its application often has to compromise with relativism due to political influences, culture, and crisis situations.