This specialization course, which is part of the Peace, Justice and Development specialization of the Adv LLM PIL programme is focused on the legal aspects of peace operations. While the course previously focused entirely on UN peacekeeping, starting in 2024 the course will cover peace operations more generally. This still includes UN peacekeeping operations, but also addresses peace operations carried out by regional organizations such as the AU and EU. Additionally, the course will cover the complexities of multinational and national operations carried out with the consent of the host State or pursuant to extraterritorial jurisdiction. Examples of the latter include counter-piracy operations. The course deals inter alia with the following aspects of peace operations: legal bases of peace operations; human rights law and peace operations; use of force and Rules of Engagement; privileges and immunities in relation to jurisdiction in the context of international operations; and responsibility and accountability for internationally wrongful acts and claims (including those against international organizations). Guest speakers will be invited to share their expertise on specific issues. The course will balance theoretical legal aspects of peace operations with examples from legal and operational practice, to demonstrate common complexities in legal interpretation and application of the law, especially in the international context.
Course Objectives
The course aims to provide students with a thorough understanding of the various practical and theoretical aspects of peace operations. It also provides an opportunity for input from the class on the topic of peace operations, including their benefits and shortcomings, their potential for global conflict resolution and global peace and security.
Achievement levels
After completing this course, students are able to identify, describe and apply the legal and practical aspects of peace operations.
Mode of Instruction
This course consists of in-person lectures and guest lectures.
Assessment Method(s)
The UN Peacekeeping course is assessed on the basis of a take-home exam.
Reading List
T. Gill, D. Fleck, W. Boothby & A. Vanheusden (Eds.), The Leuven Manual on the International Law Applicable to Peace Operations (2017)
The reading to be completed before each session is indicated in the course syllabus. Most of the literature is accompanied by a hyperlink to the resource. In some instances, it may be necessary to access the resource through the Leiden University Library website (eg in the case of open access books).
Brightspace
Additional reading will be indicated in the course reader and in the electronic learning environment, Brightspace.
Disclaimer
Should there be any future extenuating circumstances which may impinge our teaching and assessment, these could necessitate modification of the course descriptions after 1 September. This will only happen in the event of strict necessity and the interests of the students will be taken into account. Should there be a need for any change during the course, this will be informed to all students on a timely basis. Modifications after 1 September 2024 may only be done with the approval and consent of the Faculty Board and Programme Director.