Social Sciences in China (Chinese Edition)

No. 12, 2025

Reconstruction of Rights-Based Theory of International Relations

(Abstract)

Xu Jian

Since the emergence of sovereign states introduced rights into the international system in the 17th century, the nature of international politics has gradually shifted from a power-based framework to one grounded in rights: rights have reshaped the meaning and structure of international relations, recognition of rights forms the basis of inter-state interaction, the allocation of rights and obligations determines the nature of inter-state relations, and limits placed on power by rights alter the underlying dynamics of international politics. The rise and fall of major modern states, along with the evolution of the international order, have formed a rights-oriented mechanism of selection and elimination. Values aligned with the direction of historical development are more likely to be incorporated into and preserved within the international order, while values that run counter to historical trends tend to be eliminated. A rights-based theory of international relations reflects the dialectical unity of rights and power, subverting the assumptions of power-centric paradigms from multiple perspectives, offering more scientific analytical tools for assessing major global transformations currently underway, and providing important guidance for advancing theoretical innovation and serving China’s diplomatic practice.