Ruling from the Shadows: The Nature and Functions of Informal International Rules in World Politics

Abstract

Informality is a fact of international life. Plethora of unwritten rules, unofficial processes, informal meetings, unconventional practices, and ad hoc bodies govern the international system. Interviews, memoirs, narratives, and other forms of communication by seasoned diplomats all point to the fact that decisions that have consequential impacts on international politics are taken in informal settings, and numerous studies show that informal institutions fundamentally shape domestic political life. Yet, systematic and explicit accounts of the nature and functions of informal international rules (IIRs) is rare in international relations (IR) scholarship. The oversight means that we are left with many unanswered questions regarding the manner in which informal rules exist and interact in the international system and, in turn, how they shape international political outcomes. This article addresses this gap in knowledge by outlining core characteristics of IIRs and their functions in international political life. The analysis shows that key IIRs are embedded in formal institutions. Thus, while IIRs are distinct from formal international rules and should be studied in their own right, it will be a fundamental error to approach informal rules with a binary mindset.

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