Public International Law Overview

The set of rules that a particular country or community recognizes as regulating the actions of its members and which it may enforce by the imposition of penalties.

A structured system that includes legal norms, principles, institutions, and legal families.

The first part of a legal norm that establishes the conditions under which it applies.

The second part of a legal norm that outlines the rights and duties of those involved in a legal situation.

The third part of a legal norm that describes the consequences for those who violate the norm.

Rules that are mandatory and must be followed by participants in legal relationships.

Rules that allow participants to define their rights and duties within limits set by law.

A branch of law that governs relations between nations and international organizations.

Deals with everyday issues like trade, environment, and human rights.

Focuses on legal rules governing armed conflicts, including war crimes and humanitarian law.

A set of rules, norms, and standards that govern relations between sovereign states and other recognized international actors. It establishes a framework for their interactions and provides a foundation for international cooperation.

International law is shaped by states through their consent. It's not a rigid hierarchy like domestic law, but rather a system of fragmented rules based on agreements and customs.

States are the primary actors in international law but other entities, including international organizations, individuals, and even concepts like 'mankind,' can also have legal personality.

Legal personality means an entity can hold rights and obligations under international law. It's not just about power but also about responsibility.

Public International Law aims to facilitate cooperation between states, harmonize their interests, and ultimately, help prevent armed conflicts.

International law is often described as 'lex imperfecta' because it lacks a central enforcement mechanism. Compliance relies on agreement and reciprocity among states.

International law differs from municipal law in its structure, subjects, and function. While municipal law has a hierarchical structure, international law is based on consent and reciprocity.

International law is dynamic and constantly evolving, shaped by the changing realities of the world.

A type of international law that is criticized for its lack of a clear and central authority, resembling the traditional concept of natural law.

The absence of a centralized legislative, judicial, or executive power within international law, leading to questions about its enforceability.

The mechanism by which international law is enforced, which differs from the traditional system of punishment found in domestic legal systems.

A type of response by a state to a violation of international law, where the state acts in accordance with international law but not necessarily in a friendly manner.

A type of response by a state to a violation of international law, where the state acts in violation of international law in response to a previous violation.

A type of international legal norm that applies to all states, regardless of their specific agreements.

A type of international legal norm that applies to a group of states based on a shared interest or geographical proximity.

A type of international legal norm that applies to two states, established through a bilateral agreement.

A rule that overrides a more general rule when the two rules conflict, based on a more specific application.

A rule dealing with the issue of conflicting norms, stating that a later rule in time overrides an earlier rule.