The on-going conflict in Syria presents a great challenge to proponents of human rights: a consensual strategy must be found that saves lives and prevents an escalation of violence

Many world leaders agree that something has to be done to stop the bloodshed in Syria, but the country sits on a faultline of instability which could be made worse by intervening parties. Katerina Delacoura argues that the UK and other key powers must decide the path that best reduces the loss of lives and minimises the risk of a protracted, violent fall-out.