Law and International Society

This module looks at International Law: how it shapes the behaviour of, and the relations between, States in the modern world.

It will be of special interest to those studying Politics and International Relations, but it also is relevant to students taking courses such as Modern History, Development Studies, and International Business.

The module explores the way international law is made and the role that organisations like the United Nations, the International Court of Justice and the World Trade Organisation play in the creation, interpretation, and enforcement of international law. It examines critically how international law aims to govern the use of force by States, protect human rights and the environment, regulate economic cooperation between nations, and punish those individuals who commit serious international crimes such as genocide.

Lectures will outline the basic features of international law. In the seminars we will explore in more detail how international law works by looking at treaties such as the UN Charter and the Geneva Conventions, as well as some of the landmark rulings of the World Court. And we will debate whether international law is able to respond effectively to challenges like the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the mistreatment of refugees and migrants, or the destruction of the earth’s environment.

Disclaimer

Important notice regarding changes to programmes and modules