Degradation Mechanism Of International Norms

International norm refers to the cognition of legitimacy shared by members ofinternational society, and it plays a constructive role in shaping states’ actions.Existing theories about transition of international norms mainly focus on its positiveevolutionary process, and the research about the opposite evolution has also beingpaid attention to recently. The process of international norm regression is describedlike this: emerging of norm challengers-diffusion of challenging power–regressionof norms. Based on dispersed research about norm regress, this article tries to do atheoretical and systematic work: it proposed a middle level theory with three mainvariables–the condition of norms, international environment, and the normentrepreneurs. Condition of norm includes its strength and function. The stronger thenorm is, the harder it will regress; otherwise, it contains high potential of degradation.International environment includes two dimensions of common values and materialstructure. The change of international environment will have effect on challengers’intention and power. Based on the above two variables, this article pointed out thatchange of the original norm entrepreneurs’ position is the critical accelerator ordeclining point of regression process.The case analyses the regress process and mechanism of the international normof “Common but Differentiated Responsibilities” in international climate changegovernance. With the deadlock of collective action in combating international climatechange, the CDR is falling into degeneration. Due to its own weakness and the changeof international environment, the CDR is suffering wide challenges; the transition ofits advocators’ position accelerates the trend of regress.