A Multi-Level Analysis on the Impact of International Human Rights Norms and Pressures: Exploring Interactive Effects Beyond the Spiral Model

Abstract

This study conducts a multi-level analysis on the impact of international human rights norms and pressures, criticizing the spiral model from the field of International Relations. Using an analytical framework beyond state-centric perspectives, we explored three critical dimensions: the social origins of human rights violations, the political-legal intermediation within civil society, and the internal bureaucratic features of international human rights organizations. While influential, the spiral model falls short in comprehensively addressing these dimensions. Thus, in this article, we introduced theoretical and analytical reflections partly drawn from Global South studies to address these limitations.