It is assumed that all students already have a good working knowledge of public international law. On this assumption, the purpose of this course is two-fold: first, to refresh knowledge of public international law, its general principles and key doctrines; second, to focus attention upon recent developments and topical issues affecting these general principles. Themes discussed may include: the history and function of international law, sources, statehood, international responsibility, treatment of aliens, jurisdiction and immunities, human rights, UN system and targeted sanctions, use of force and international terrorism, environmental and cyber security.
Course Objectives
The course aims to refresh the knowledge of the general principles of international law, to focus attention upon the foundations and to discuss recent developments and topical issues affecting these general principles, including the case law of the International Court of Justice. The student will acquire a thorough knowledge and understanding of international law, including public international law, the history and function of international law, sources, statehood, the diversification of participants, international responsibility, treatment of aliens, jurisdiction and immunities, human rights and IHL, UN system and targeted sanctions, use of force and international terrorism and fragmentation and the proliferation of international courts.
Achievement levels
The student learns how to carry out independent research, to formulate an independent opinion on international legal questions and to develop and formulate appropriate solutions to complex legal problems, based on the norms, practices and methods discussed in the course.
Mode of Instruction
The course consists of interactive lectures and seminars spread over two blocks of 5 weeks each.
Assessment Method(s)
The course has various assessments:
Short paper (500 words), on topic selected by the student;
Synoptic case study paper (500 words): For this assignment students are grouped into panels of max. 6 students, each student exploring a different aspect of the case (a theme). Grading is individual, but students are invited to collaborate and coordinate within their panel. Each student writes a 500 word paper. For the presentation, students should co-ordinate within their panels to ensure no overlaps and be prepared to ask questions on the presentations of other fellow students within their panel;
Mid-term paper (750 words): Students choose one case that they consider to be significant – a landmark in international law;
Final paper: Students are grouped in pairs to argue opposite legal positions concerning a certain case;
Conference presentation on final paper.
Reading List
Malcolm D. Evans, International Law
C. Henderson, The Use of Force and International Law
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.