International Relations

C02(a) - IR Theory 1: Identity & Norms in World Politics

Date: Jun 3 | Time: 10:15am to 11:45am | Location:

Chair/Président/Présidente : Andrew Cooper (University of Waterloo)

Discussant/Commentateur/Commentatrice : Micha Fiedlschuster (York University)

Norms and Norm Hierarchies in International Politics Daniel Jacinto, McGill University Same Same or Different? A Typology of Localization(s) Adam Kochanski, University of Guelph Exploring the Intersections of the Ummah and the No Borders Movement in Reimagining Togetherness Fatima Qaraan, York University Techno-nationalism in the “New Cold War”: A Critical Approach Szu-Yun Hsu, McMaster University

Norms and Norm Hierarchies in International Politics: Daniel Jacinto (McGill University), Fernando G. Nuñez-Mietz (McGill University)
Abstract: While past scholarship has studied the dynamics of international norms and shown how individual norms matter for international outcomes, less thoroughly examined is whether and how certain norms might matter ‘more’. The notion that some norms inherently carry more weight than others—and why—yields crucial implications for existing areas of norms research: the likelihood of diffusion and internalization, propensity of violation and enforcement, and the relationship between norms and international order. I proposes the concept of a ‘norm hierarchy’, arguing that for any given international society, there exists an implicit rank ordering of norms in terms of relative priority. Such hierarchies are historically contingent—the product of material distributions of power, historical critical junctures, and prior interaction through entrepreneurship, ‘anti-preneurship’, and contestation. They are simultaneously politically constraining and productive—structuring the relative costs of state behaviour according to prevailing norms, while creating sites for contestation over the relative importance of these norms. Following a review of the norms literature, this paper conceptually defines norm hierarchies, theorizes their dynamics, and suggests methods for empirically deducing them.

Techno-nationalism in the “New Cold War”: A Critical Approach: Szu-Yun Hsu (McMaster University)
Abstract: In the shadow of the looming “New Cold War,” there have been increasing state endeavors from great to middle powers to foster its strategic industries in preparation for the intensified “tech war.” The resurging emphasis on science and technology for strengthening national security ignites interest in techno-nationalism both in the policy circle and in academia. This paper seeks to go beyond the conventional state-centric strategic account of the rise of techno-nationalism by employing the critical (geo)political economy approach. It first maps out the literature commonly drawn to account for the intersection of technology and nationalism, such as economic nationalism and realist geoeconomics, and then discusses the necessity of bringing the critical perspective to the existing dialogue. It further investigates the development of techno-nationalism through triangulating the following perspectives: 1) geopolitical conjuncture of the time that promotes particular discursive meanings of the knowledge-based economy; 2) internationalized capitalist social relations of production that condition the ways in which hi-tech industries are (geo)politicized; 3) context-specific nationalist politics that casts a particular form of contestation over national identity and the national-popular. To illustrate this triangulated analytical framework, this paper will examine the contentious nationalist politics surrounding the knowledge-based economy in Taiwan at the current geopolitical-geoeconomic conjuncture as a case in point.

Exploring the Intersections of the Ummah and the No Borders Movement in Reimagining Togetherness: Fatima Qaraan (York University)
Abstract: As the world becomes increasingly more interconnected, movements transcending traditional national boundaries redefine the concepts of belonging and identity. This paper explores the intersections of the Ummah, the global Muslim community, and the No Borders movement, which advocates for dismantling physical and ideological margins. By examining how these two frameworks challenge conventional notions of the nation-state, this paper explores their implications in contemporary socio-political discourse. The Ummah embodies a collective identity transcending political and geographical divisions by fostering solidarity among Muslims worldwide while the No Borders movement promotes freedom of movement by disassembling oppressive structures. Through qualitative analysis, this paper examines case studies in which these movements intersect, highlighting initiatives that promote inclusivity. Muslim-led organizations have engaged with No Borders activists, advocating for refugee rights, and insisting on the importance of humanity over national identity. The Ummah and the No Borders movement are relevant to pedagogical frameworks based on their ability to positively influence learners’ and educators’ understanding of diversity and inclusion by fostering solidarity across borders. They also challenge oppressive political structures and foster inclusive narratives, paving the way for a more inclusive global society. This exploration emphasizes how these interconnected movements can inspire a reimagining of togetherness that prioritizes human dignity over arbitrary borders. This research will contribute to the ongoing discussions about identity politics, community resilience, and the role of education in shaping inclusive futures in an era ridden with conflict and division.