Things we lost in the fire: how different types of contestation affect the validity of international norms

Abstract

Norms in international relations are frequently contested and subjects of controversy. According to existing research contestation of norms can either lead to their strengthening or weakening. But under which conditions does contestation lead to either one? The authors argue that the type of contestation matters to explain the strengthening or weakening effects. Contestation around the application of norms in a specific situation does not question the norm as such. On the other hand, contestation of the validity of a norm over time often leads to a weakening of the norm.