Targeted Killings and International Law

Abstract

Targeted killings are increasingly the manner in which some of the militarily most powerful States in the world project violence around the globe. This article examines whether such actions are consistent with international law using the well-established parameters of State responsibility and the obligations found under international humanitarian and human rights law. The appraisal of targeted killings is based on principles of international law that are rarely disputed, but often ignored in the consideration of targeted killings due to reasons of political convenience. In the process of considering this central issue, the article also examines the intricate and sometimes misunderstood relationship between these two areas of law as well as the legal justifications that States have or may put forward in defense of their actions. This evaluation concludes that rarely, if ever, are States that conduct targeted killings acting with respect for international law. Moreover, these States, which often base their justifications on political interests related to the national security of their people, may even be jeopardizing the very security of their populations that they are think they are protecting.