Legal Definitions - jus bellum dicendi

jus bellum dicendi

Jus bellum dicendi is a Latin term that means the right to declare war.

When a country feels threatened or provoked, its leaders may exercise their jus bellum dicendi and declare war on the opposing nation. For instance, the United States exercised its jus bellum dicendi when it declared war on Japan after the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.

Another example is when a country decides to intervene in a conflict between two other nations. In this case, the country must have a valid reason for exercising its jus bellum dicendi, such as protecting its citizens or promoting peace. For instance, the United Nations may exercise its jus bellum dicendi to authorize military action in a conflict zone.

These examples illustrate how jus bellum dicendi is the right to declare war, which is a significant decision that can have far-reaching consequences for a country and its people.