What is the primary focus of normative theory in international relations?

The primary focus of normative theory in international relations centers on the ethical implications and justifications of actions taken by states and other actors on the international stage. It examines questions related to morality, what ought to be done, and the principles that should guide political action rather than just describing or analyzing what happens (as seen in descriptive approaches). Normative theories delve into issues like justice, human rights, and the ethical responsibilities of nations, thereby influencing how policies are formulated and evaluated from a moral standpoint. This distinct focus sets normative theory apart from other approaches, which may concentrate solely on empirical data or theoretical comparisons of systems and ideologies.