Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

Topics include: an overview of international organisations and the role they play in the development of international law; the sources of international institutional law; the United Nations, including the General Assembly; the Security Council, peacekeeping operations and human rights; global judicial bodies including the International Court of Justice and War Crimes Tribunals; international economic organisations including the IMF and the World (IBRD); regional organisations particularly APEC; the effectiveness of international organisations including enforcement issues and prospects for reform.

Objectives

Students who successfully complete the course should have

(1) acquired an understanding of the development and practice of international organisations and their role in developing international law;
1. an understanding of the roles, structure, functions and practice of international organisations;
2. a general knowledge of regional organisations particularly in the Asia Pacific region and the unexplored links between regional organisations and global governance;
3. examined some particular case studies which evaluate the effectiveness of international organisations and the current issues they face, and
4. enhanced their presentational, legal research and legal writing skills.

Assessment

Individual research assignment (4000 words): 50%
Take-home examination (two weeks - 4000 words): 50%

Contact hours

Taught intensively over 2.5 weeks of lectures for 3 hours a day.

Prerequisites

LAW1100 or LAW1101 and LAW1102 or LAW1104