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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2003 - 2004

Module Title Principles of Public International Law
Module Code LG526
School School of Law & Government

Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorDr Adam McAuleyOffice NumberC223
Level 5 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Module Aims
To introduce students to the fundamental principles of public international law. To examine the development of public international law during the 20th Century. To examine major trends in the legal regulation of the world order, in particular the impact of World War II and, more recently, the ending of the Cold War. To compare and contrast the institutional arrangements and mechanisms available for the enforcement of public international law with those available in the domestic sphere. To identify particular instances of international agreements for the protection of human rights which exemplify some major trends in public international law.

Learning Outcomes
An understanding of the essential principles of public international law. An ability to apply essential principles to particular instances of international human rights protection. An appreciation of the role of law in international relations.

Indicative Time Allowances
Hours
Lectures 2
Tutorials 0
Laboratories 0
Seminars 1
Independent Learning Time 72

Total 75
Placements
Assignments
NOTE
Assume that a 5 credit module load represents approximately 75 hours' work, which includes all teaching, in-course assignments, laboratory work or other specialised training and an estimated private learning time associated with the module.

Indicative Syllabus
International law as 'law': prescription and enforcement; international law and municipal or domestic law: monism and dualism Development of international law: historical and contemporary influences; sources of international law: general principles; custom; treaties and Conventions; judicial decisions; writers; international organisations; codification of international law The State and international law: recognition of States; self-determination; State jurisdiction and territoriality, Law of the Sea; use of force; civil wars; Treaty-making power and relevant international Conventions; diplomatic immunity The role of international bodies: jurisdiction of international organisations, e.g. UNO, Council of Europe, EU; enforcement mechanisms, eg, International Court of Justice; responsibility of States for failure to implement international obligations; arbitration and peaceful settlement of disputes between States The corporate entity in international law; removal of international barriers to trade; protection of international human rights; assertion by individuals of rights and duties under international law; international crimes, eg fraud, drug trafficking; War Crimes Tribunals
Assessment
Continuous Assessment50% Examination Weight50%
Indicative Reading List
Akehurst, M: A Modern Introduction to International Law. George Allen & Unwin, London, 1992 Shearer, I: Starke's International Law. Butterworths, London, 1994 Brownlie, I: Principles of Public International Law. London, 1992 Dixon, M: Textbook on International Law. Blackstone, London, 1996 Harris, D.J: Cases and Materials on International Law, Sweet & Maxwell, London, 1992
Programme or List of Programmes
MIRMA in International Relations
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