Description
Book SynopsisThe author argues that the Helsinki Final Act (1975) transformed East-West relations and provided a common platform around which opposition could mobilize. This text counters those who believe international norms do not affect domestic political change, and explains why and how they matter.
Trade Review"This engaging book argues that human rights norms mattered more than geo-political power or economics in ending the Cold War."--Foreign Affairs "Thomas's work is valuable for a number of reasons. First, it serves as an excellent analysis of the emergence of the Helsinki process and its interpretation in the west and east. In addition, Thomas reminds us of the ways in which this language became an important part of the dissident movement and the emergence of civil society across the Soviet bloc. Finally, Thomas uses this discussion to challenge traditional thinking on international relations and the role of ideas, seeking to apply these lessons more broadly to the field."--Patrick O'Neil, Slavic Review
Table of ContentsThe International Politics of Human Rights 3 THE EVOLUTION OF NORMS 25 Chapter One: The Emergence of Human Rights Norms in East-West Relations 27 Chapter Two: Negotiating Human Rights in the Helsinki Final Act 55 THE FRAMING OF NORMS 89 Chapter Three: Framing "Helsinki" at Home: Social Movements against the Communist Party-state 91 Chapter Four: Framing "Helsinki" Abroad: Transnational Networks and U.S . Policy 121 THE EFFECT OF NORMS 157 Chapter Five: Mobilization: The Expansion of Human Rights Movements 159 Chapter Six: Backlash: Communism's Response to Human Rights 195 Chapter Seven: Socialization: Human Rights and the Dismantling of Communist Rule 220 Conclusions 253 The Helsinki Effect 257 Appendix: Interviews 289 Index 295
