Public International Law

Public International Law - Professor Kathleen Maloney

• Course Number: LAW-138
• Course Type: Foundational
• Credits: 3
• Enrollment Limit: Determined by the Registrar
• Description: Public international law comprises rules and norms that govern rights, obligations, and relations among nations and international bodies, ranging from the United Nations to global courts. This international legal framework encompasses many other fields of law and political dynamics. Recent developments threatening the relative stability of the post-World War II international order make understanding this legal system more important than ever. This course introduces students to international law’s basic tenets, nature, and sources, and their application in international and national settings, including in settling disputes. Students will learn about State recognition and responsibilities, the self-determination of peoples, limits on the use of force, international tribunals and organizations, and the law of the sea and other common spaces. You will become skillful in analyzing contemporary world events through the lens of international law and its various mechanisms to promote peace, human rights, and justice, as well as to address armed conflict, international crimes, and global environmental challenges. In an increasingly interconnected world, this course provides an invaluable foundation for further study of international law subjects and for the pursuit of careers in related fields.
• Prerequisite: none
• Evaluation Method: Active class participation and final examination.
• Capstone: no
• WIE: no

Public International Law - Professor Chris Wold

• Course Number: LAW-138
• Course Type: Foundational
• Credits: 3
• Enrollment Limit: Determined by the Registrar
• Description: International law is a vast field permeating many other fields of law in an increasing interconnected world. This course introduces students to the basic tenets of public international law, including its nature and sources, its application in international and national settings, and its role in settling disputes. Subject matter areas covered will include, among others, the interaction between international and municipal law, the recognition and responsibility of States, self-determination, limits on the use of force, international courts and organizations, and the law of the sea and other common spaces. Students will develop the ability to analyze contemporary world events and how international law might apply to these situations, ranging from global environmental problems and human rights abuses to armed conflict and international crimes. This course will provide a solid foundation for those wishing to study international law in greater depth and pursue courses and careers in related fields.
• Prerequisite: none
• Evaluation Method: Class participation and final exam. The final exam will be scheduled.
• Capstone: no
• WIE: no