The aim of module is for students to gain academic and intellectual progression in the field of public international law, together with the acquisition of specific knowledge and skills in certain selected special legal regimes from international law (like the law on the use of force). A further educational aim is to provide critical analysis of the complexities arising in the fields of public international law and using challenging and informing global and comparative perspectives with regard to domestic law.
The course is underpinned by the significance of engagement with State practice, and existing and emerging research and advanced scholarship.

(LO1) A critical understanding and knowledge of the principles that form the basis of the law governing inter-state relations

(LO2) An ability to identify complex international legal issues and problems including those suitable for further research

(LO3) An ability to work effectively with all relevant primary and secondary international legal sources, including complex materials, and to inform and develop understanding of a given topic

(LO4) An awareness of the interaction of political and legal factors in the conduct of international relations

(LO5) An ability to apply legal knowledge to complex situations including those involving doctrinal disputes over the theory and practice of international law, and to offer own reasoned views over such legal disputes

(LO6) An ability to construct coherent legal arguments

(LO7) An ability to undertake independent research, and to think critically about international legal issues

(LO8) An ability to interpret and evaluate international legal materials within the wider context of international relations and domestic practices

(S1) Conduct independent research and critical analysis

(S2) Problem Solving

(S3) Verbal communication and reasoning

(S4) Effective legal reasoning

Nature, history and basis of international law;

Sources of international law: overview;

Customary international law and the role of soft law Subjects of international law;

Statehood and the role of recognition;

State jurisdiction: principles and practice;

State & diplomatic immunities;

The International Court of Justice: established and emerging case law;

International law and domestic law;

[Please note that not all the above topics may necessarily be taught in any given semester.]

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: Lectures will address selected areas of international law and explain the basic principles underpinning them. Lectures are organised into thematic blocs as follows: 1) general features and evolution of international law; 2) sources of international law; 3) the scope of international law; 4) the use of force in international law; and 5) state responsibility in international law.

Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 2 - Seminar
Description: The seminars (5 classes in total, each lasting for 2 hours) are designed to be interactive and support student reflection on central areas of discourse covered in lectures.
Attendance Recorded: Yes