What the study found
The study argues that sovereignty violations are treated as denials of dignity, which helps explain why states often respond to them with emotional diplomatic action and multilateral engagement.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors conclude that sovereignty works as a social institution that constructs states as persons with equal moral worth, and the study suggests this helps explain why reactions to kidnappings and other sovereignty violations extend beyond the states directly involved.
What the researchers tested
The researchers developed a theory of performative emotionality in sovereignty and examined two cases of state-led international kidnappings: Argentina’s response to the 1960 abduction of Adolf Eichmann by Israeli agents, and Japan’s ongoing response to North Korea’s kidnapping of multiple Japanese citizens.
What worked and what didn't
The abstract says these cases illustrate how sovereignty violations can become multilateral issues and how states are expected to perform appropriate emotion in response. It also states that this performance is shaped by the international system’s colonial legacy and an enduring standard of civilisation.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not describe detailed methods, evidence, or the limits of the case studies beyond identifying the two examples used. It also does not provide a separate limitations section.
Key points
- The study links sovereignty violations to denials of dignity.
- It argues that states are treated as persons with equal moral worth.
- It examines Argentina’s response to the Eichmann abduction and Japan’s response to North Korean kidnappings.
- The abstract says sovereignty violations can prompt multilateral diplomatic engagement.
- The authors say emotional performance is shaped by colonial legacy and a standard of civilisation.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Sovereignty violations can trigger emotional multilateral responses
- Authors:
- Nina C. Krickel-Choi, Minseon Ku
- Institutions:
- Danish Institute for International Studies, Lund University, Swedish Institute of International Affairs, DePaul University
- Publication date:
- 2026-02-24
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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