Public International Law (LAWS50041)

This subject is an introduction to public international law. It offers an overview of the core doctrines, sources, and concepts of international law, and discusses the role of international institutions such as the United Nations in the development and application of international law. The subject will build on the understanding of international law acquired in Principles of Public Law and enable students to engage deeply with international law in the context of contemporary global events. Students will be encouraged to evaluate the position and relevance of international law in international politics and society by addressing past and current developments through case studies.

Indicative list of principal topics:

• The nature of international law;
• The sources of international law;
• The law of treaties;
• International dispute settlement, including through the International Court of Justice;
• The subjects of international law;
• Responsibility for breaches of international obligations;
• International law on the use of force, and
• The future of international law.

Each offering of this subject will a selection of subject-specific areas of international law such as international human rights law; international environmental law and climate change; the law of the sea, as well as hot topics and current issues in international law.