Subjects 2009
Principles of International Law 730801
- Credited Courses: Graduate Diploma in International Economic Law 891; Graduate Diploma in International Law 323; Graduate Diploma in Transnational Law 333; Master of Laws (LLM) 502; Master of Public and International Law 511
Note
This subject provides an introduction to the basic concepts and norms of the public international legal order. It is designed for those who have no background or a very limited background in international law. Those who have completed an undergraduate subject in international law or have some professional experience are advised to consider other international law offerings.
Objectives
A student who has successfully completed this subject should:
- Be familiar with the process, structures and language of international law
- Understand the principal sources of international law and how they are applied
- Understand who the subjects of international legal rights and duties are
- Understand when states may and may not exercise jurisdiction over people, things and events
- Understand the position and relevance of international law in international politics and society
- Understand and be able to use foundational concepts of public international law
- Understand how public international law works in practice; its sources; and the institutional structure of the UN system
- Understand the distinction between public international law at the international level and as it is applied in domestic courts
- Understand substantive areas of international law such as the law of war crimes, international economic law, human rights law and the use of force
- Understand the history of international law and its contemporary relevance
- Understand the significance of the UN Charter
- Recognise how international law is political and yet detached or autonomous from politics
- Be familiar with the circumstances in which states may use force in international law.
Syllabus
Principal topics will include:
- Nature, purpose and language of international law
- Sources of international law
- International legal personality
- Jurisdiction
- Responsibility of states (civil and criminal)
- Responsibility of individuals (civil and criminal)
- The UN and regional organisations
- The International Court of Justice
- Peaceful settlement of disputes and the use of force
- The relationship between international law and municipal law.
