Public International Law Overview Fall 2024

The principle that a state has supreme and independent authority within its own territory, free from external control.

The right of a state to maintain its borders and territory intact, free from external aggression or intervention.

A recognized and established government that exercises authority and control over a defined territory and its people.

A system of rules and principles that govern relations between sovereign states and international organizations, such as the United Nations.

A powerful, centralized authority created by individuals through a social contract, necessary to prevent conflict and disorder that prevails in a state of nature.

A human community that successfully claims the monopoly of the legitimate use of physical force within a given territory.

The principle that a state is responsible for the actions of its government and its officials, even if they act outside of their official capacity.

A system of principles and practices designed to maintain peace and security within a particular region or globally.

International law is a system of rules and principles that regulate the conduct of states and other international actors.

International law encompasses various concepts and principles that guide interactions between states and other entities on the global stage.

International law's limitations stem from its reliance on the consent of states, the absence of a strong enforcement mechanism, and the complexities of international relations.

The interplay of power and international law shapes how international rules are applied and enforced. Strong states have a significant influence on the system.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is the primary judicial body for resolving disputes between states based on international law.

Public international law emphasizes the regulation of interactions between states and international organizations; private international law deals with conflicts involving individuals and entities within different legal jurisdictions.

The homework questions are designed to be challenging and thought-provoking, encouraging a deeper understanding of the course material.

The weekly homework questions are graded and provide valuable feedback, helping students identify strengths and weaknesses in their understanding.

The weekly homework questions are an important part of the learning process, as they help students apply and solidify their understanding of the course material.

The course is designed to be interactive and engaging. Students can ask questions, share ideas, and participate actively.

A state's right to govern itself independently and without interference from other states, including the right to make its own laws, maintain its territory, and conduct foreign relations.

It's unlikely. Sweden does not have jurisdiction over crimes committed by Mexican nationals against other Mexicans outside Sweden. Territorial jurisdiction is generally required.

International law generally prohibits the use of force against military targets. It's not illegal per se, but there are exceptions.

Treaties are legally binding agreements between states that create obligations and rights. They form the basis of many international legal principles.

International organizations, states, and individuals are all recognized subjects of international law, meaning they have rights and obligations under it.

Jurisdiction refers to a state's legal power to exercise authority over people, property, and events within its territory. It can also extend beyond its borders in certain cases.

Immunities are special legal protections granted to certain individuals (e.g., diplomats, heads of state) and organizations (e.g., international organizations) under international law.

States have a responsibility to uphold international law and to provide remedies for breaches. This is called state responsibility in international law.

Peaceful settlement of disputes refers to methods and processes for resolving conflicts between states without resorting to armed force.

The central source of international law, arising from agreements between states. Treaties create binding obligations for participating states, shaping international relations and establishing specific legal regimes.

The process of resolving disputes between states through peaceful means. It involves various methods, including negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and adjudication.

A vital tool for enforcing international law and deterring violations. Sanctions are restrictive measures imposed by one or more states on another state, often targeting economic, political, or diplomatic activities due to a specific violation of international law.

The use of force by a state against another state, encompassing military action, invasion, and other acts of aggression.

The legal regime governing the use of the world's oceans, including navigation, fishing, and resource exploitation. It seeks to balance state sovereignty over their territorial seas with the need for freedom of the seas for international trade and scientific research.

The period before the Peace of Westphalia (1648), characterized by various tribes, empires, city-states, and groups often engaged in expansionist wars and conquests.

The period from the Peace of Westphalia (1648) to the end of World War II (1945), marked by the rise of sovereign states with defined territories, governments, and populations. Diplomatic means became key to resolving conflicts, replacing widespread warfare.

The period from the founding of the United Nations in 1945 to the present, characterized by international efforts to prevent war, promote human rights, and establish international law.

International organizations, such as the European Union, that operate above the level of individual states and have authority over member states.

A treaty signed in 1713 that ended the War of the Spanish Succession, demonstrating the power of diplomacy and the ability of nations to resolve conflicts through agreements.

A series of agreements reached in 1815 following the Napoleonic Wars, establishing a balance of power in Europe and promoting stability through international cooperation.

A series of international conferences held in 1899 and 1907, which focused on promoting peaceful conflict resolution and establishing the Permanent Court of International Justice (PCIJ).

An international organization created in 1919 after World War I with the goal of promoting international cooperation and preventing future wars. Though it lacked enforcement power and ultimately failed, it laid the groundwork for the United Nations.

A treaty signed in 1928 by many nations, in which they renounced war as a means of settling international disputes. Although the agreement lacked enforcement mechanisms, it symbolized the growing international desire for peace.