Paix et Sécurité Internationales

Nouvelle Série – Version électronique

Issue #3 (2015)

Targeted killings of suspected terrorists in the light of the right of self-defence

Jacqueline HELLMAN; Raquel REGUEIRO

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to examine and discuss if the use of drones -when used as an offensive weapon to end the life of suspected terrorists- validly falls within the scope of application of Article 51 of the UN Charter. In order to do so, the requirements established by the mentioned Charter will be duly analysed. Consequently, we will be able to conclude if drones are or are not fulfilling the legal requirements requested by the right of self-defence, adjusting in the latter case the interpretation of international law to the particular national interests of some countries.

Keywords: drones, counter terrorism measures, self-defence, principle of proportionality.

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Paix et Sécurité Internationales

ISSN 2341-0868