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Leader(s): Eric Wilson (Semester One); Gideon Boas (Semester Two)

Offered

Clayton First semester 2009 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

Topics include: theory of international law; the place of States in international law, including their rights, obligations, status and jurisdiction; the sources of international law and how they are interpreted and applied; the implementation of international law by states, in particular Australia's approach; the nature of international disputes and their resolution; the law related to the use of force by States and self-defence; the role of international institutions; the role of individuals in international law; and specific areas of public international law, including the law of the sea and environmental law.

Objectives

On completion of this subject students should understand and be able to critically examine:

• the fundamental principles of international law;
• the theoretical framework of international law and its relationship with domestic law;

the crucial role of States, international institutions and individuals in the international legal system;

• how international law is made and the complexity involved in interpreting and applying its sources;
• how Australia interprets and applies international law in relation to its own legal framework;
• the use of force and self-defence in international law;
• international dispute resolution;
• some of the different areas of international law;
• the political context and nature of international law.

Assessment

Examination (2.5 hours): 100% OR Examination (2 hours): 70%
Optional Assignment (2400 words): 30%

Contact hours

Three hours of lectures per week

Prerequisites

LAW1100 or LAW1101 and LAW1102 or LAW1104