The realism and importance of the norm of human rightsWith the widespread violation of the norm of human rights, the norms Are they relevant in international politics? What importance do they have if they do not inform political decisions? Can anything be done to strengthen the normative element of human rights protection on a large scale? Constructivists state that norms, principles, regimes, or ideas are important factors at play in the international system, mitigating the pure self-interest and power politics that dictate behavior, consistent with the dominant realist worldview. However, the extent to which norms actually influence decision-making is the true test of the relevance of constructivist arguments. Do norms and ideas really affect the interests of the state? I will argue that the human rights norm has no significant impact on politics, while admitting that it does exist in some form. And for it to be meaningful, it must be internalized beyond the system level. Realism is not only the ubiquitous approach in international relations literature, but it is also accurate in describing and anticipating state actions. Constructivists need a real answer to realism, and to do so, standards must enter the rational decision-making process. This could take many forms, including increasing the costs of violating norms, introducing hegemonic power into the system, or redefining interests in other than material terms. Discussions in the literature analyze the impact of norms, regimes, ideas or principles on international relations, but do not often take a sufficiently critical look at the issues. Realist policies hinder progressive and humanitarian initiatives because of their marriage to power and material capabilities...... middle of article...... Realist international theory and the study of world politics. in New Thought in International Relations Theory. ed. Doyle, Michael w. and G. John Ikenberry (ed.) (Westview Press: 1997). Klotz, Audie. “Norms Restoring Interests: Global Racial Equality and US Sanctions Against South Africa.” » International Organization, Vol. 49, no. 3 (summer 1995), 451-478. Krasner, Stephen D. “Structural Causes and Consequences of Diets: Diets as Intervening Variables.” » International organization. Flight. 36, No. 2, International Regimes (Spring 1982), 185-205. Snyder, Glenn H. “Process Variables in Neorealist Theory.” » in Frankel, Benjamin (ed.). Realism: reformulation and renewals. (London, F. Cass: 1996).Zacher, Mark W. “The Norm of Territorial Integrity: International Borders and the Use of Force.” International organization. Flight. 55, No. 2 (Spring 2001), 215-250.