The power of norms and leaders in constructing normative relevance: The case of Timor-Leste

How can the power of norms triumph over material power? To address this issue this article explores the relational dynamics of structural and agential factors that enhanced the normative relevance of the Timor-Leste question between 1975 and 1999. In doing so, it contextualises the roles of the United Nations, Portugal, and Indonesia; advances a relational theorisation about power, norms, and context; and develops the concept of normative relevance. I argue that the change in Timor-Leste was related to the hierarchical and normative structural transformations of the 1990s, with the new political and ideational environment providing the conditions necessary for the change and emergence of Timor-Leste’s normative relevance. Moreover, by activating a sense of normative obligation, leaders and diplomatic officials assume the role of agents of change and reinforce the norm’s relevance. However, simply possessing normative reason for resolving an international dispute is insufficient. For normative legitimacy to be effective, norms must be relevant and collectively assumed by the international community.