This chapter starts by observing that public responsibility is still understood in very different ways throughout the world, depending largely on the political, social and cultural background of each State. The Chinese, Middle Eastern, African and Central European examples presented bear witness to this reality, and in particular to the close link between the development of public responsibility and the emancipation of the individual from the State and the collectivity. The great diversity of national and supranational practices on a world-wide scale – in a context marked by global challenges and by the still essential role of the Nation-State framework – makes a comparative legal approach essential, not only to prevent unwarranted standardization, but also to bridge differences and ‘further compatibility’.

The chapter focuses on the internationalization of the international system as a way to pursue a stronger justice agenda at the international level. In this regard, a key aspect of Delmas-Marty deals with pluralism. In this regard Delmas-Marty argues that such pluralism is both underway and in need of being strengthened and encouraged. Delmas-Marty pursues the development of a conception of the national interest that is more solidarity oriented. Most important for the future of international law and world order, we have to find a better balance between competition and cooperation, and ensure that solidarity and responsibility are values and principles that prevail.