Principles of International Law
This course provides an introduction to the principles and rules of public international law. As a foundational course, it focuses on the key concepts, sources, actors and dispute resolution mechanisms of the international legal system. It also touches upon some of the substantive areas of international legal regulation, such as conflict and security, the global economy and the environment, and introduces the leading theoretical approaches to international law.
International law has long been used, with some success, to facilitate relations between States. International law has provided States with a common language in which to discuss and resolve matters of mutual concern, and to articulate shared aspirations and plans. Yet international law is not just about States. We live in a global village, where the level of interaction and interdependence between individuals and groups separated by national boundaries is greater than ever before. International law is one of the tools that States have for addressing these transboundary relationships.
Particularly since the end of the Second World War, international law has moved beyond an essentially contractual regime of coexistence and cooperation of States. It has begun to reflect a commitment to certain substantive values (such as human dignity) and mindsets (such as multilateralism). But a chill wind blows. Recent years have seen a rise in scepticism for international law and a retreat from multilateralism. This course seeks to explain the indispensable role that international law plays in international relations while reflecting upon its limitations and prospects.
What you will learn
The course has four parts. On days 1 and 2, we consider the historical development, nature and sources of international law. The question here is about how international law is made and why it is so made. We will also consider theoretical critiques of international law, the institutional structures of international law and how international legal disputes can be peacefully resolved.
On day 3, we will look at how different national systems interact with international law. We will also look at the actors or subjects of international law. This raises a question about who makes international law and to whom is it addressed.
Finally, on day 4, we will take a brief look at a selection of substantive issues that international law deals with: human rights, international criminal responsibility, the global economy, the environment, the seas, airspace and outer space, and armed conflict.
Who is the course designed for
Our CPD courses are available to professionals interested in contemporary legal issues.
Whether you're looking to acquire CPD points, expand your knowledge in a specific area of the law, or gain a general understanding of legal issues impacting your profession, our courses will equip you to go further in every possible future.
Style of learning
Our CPD participants benefit from small class sizes which encourage group discussion and debate, and 1-on-1 access to industry experts and leading researchers.
Location
This course is delivered at UQ St Lucia campus.
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Enrolment options
Registration for this course in semester 1, 2024 has closed.
Enrol as a part of a Masters degree program
This course is part of the Masters of Laws postgraduate program.
CPD enrolment closes two weeks prior to the course start date.
No entry requirements apply, you are not required to submit assessment and your course participation cannot be used as academic credit towards a degree qualification.
Our courses count toward Queensland Law Society Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points if you can demonstrate relevance to your legal practice.
