Robert McCorquodale is a renowned expert in international human rights law. He has written extensively on various topics within the field, including the relationship between non-state actors and international human rights law. While I don’t have specific information on Robert McCorquodale’s views on this subject, I can provide you with a general overview.
International human rights law primarily regulates the actions of states concerning the protection and promotion of human rights. However, the traditional focus on state actors has expanded to include non-state actors, such as multinational corporations, armed groups, and non-governmental organizations.
Non-state actors can have a significant impact on human rights, both positive and negative, due to their ability to influence or control certain aspects of people’s lives. Examples include corporations involved in resource extraction, armed groups committing human rights abuses, or NGOs advocating for human rights protection.
The recognition of non-state actors’ responsibility under international human rights law has evolved over time. While the legal obligations of non-state actors are generally narrower in scope compared to states, they are increasingly being held accountable for their actions that impact human rights.
The extent of non-state actors’ obligations and their accountability depends on various factors, including the nature of their activities, their degree of control or influence over a situation, and the specific human rights implicated. For instance, corporations may be held accountable for human rights abuses through principles like the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, which outline the responsibility of businesses to respect human rights.
The recognition of non-state actors in international human rights law reflects the changing dynamics of global affairs. It acknowledges that promoting and protecting human rights requires engagement from multiple actors beyond states alone. Efforts continue to refine and strengthen the legal framework governing the responsibilities of non-state actors in relation to human rights.
While Robert McCorquodale’s writings would offer valuable insights into this topic, his specific views on the role of non-state actors in international human rights law would need to be explored through his scholarly works or public statements.