The external dimension of populism: Some remarks on how it influencesthe theory and practice of international law

The discussion on the impact of international law began with some delay. Usually, populists' narratives describe international law as a tool of oppression in the hands of corrupted elites. On other occasions, it is portrayed as a set of allegedly depoliticized rules applicable to relations between states, without considering spill-overs it causes (e.g., contributing to the increasing inequalities, environmental degradation, or even terrorism. This chapter does not seek to establish whether these allegations are correct. Instead, it examines the alternatives or correctors populists sometimes propose, understood as their propositions or concepts on changing or adapting the existing international legal system in force. In conclusion, I argue that - as of now - populism has produced more harm than good within international law.