Module description:
In an increasingly globalised world, there are fewer and fewer areas of law and practice that do not involve some form of international law. International law is also increasingly a part of political debate, as occurred, for example, in relation to the Iraq conflict, and is now frequently referred to in judicial decisions at the highest level. International law has antecedents that predate the Common Era, but the modern, State-based international order is slightly more recent, dating from 1648. Nonetheless, there have been large changes in global order in the last century, with, for example the creation of the United Nations and the emergence of individuals and multinational corporations as international actors. This course is intended to introduce students to the basic nature, structure, legal sources and concepts of contemporary international law, alongside a selection of its basic rules.
Outline of seminar topics:
- International Law and International Society
- The Sources of International Law
- Hierarchy of International Rules
- International Legal Personality: States, Individuals and International Organisations
- International Law and Domestic Law
- Jurisdiction
- The Law of Treaties
- State Responsibility
- Peaceful Settlement of International Disputes
- Use of Force