LAWS 7030 Principles of International Law

Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 200964

Coordinator Manuel Ventura Opens in new window

Description This subject explores the nature, role and characteristics of international law; the concepts of statehood; sovereignty and jurisdiction; the relationships between domestic and international law; the role of law and treaties; and the role of international organisations such as the United Nations and International Court of Justice. The subject also examines contemporaneous and contentious issues of international law.

School Law

Discipline International Law

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 4 10cp

Check your fees via the Fees page.

Level Postgraduate Coursework Level 7 subject

Co-requisite(s) LAWS 7056

Restrictions

Students must be enrolled in 2824 Master of Laws or 2826 Juris Doctor to enrol in this subject.

Students in program 8083 Bachelor of Research Studies should seek permission from the law school via a rule waiver to enrol in this subject.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  1. Analyse the fundamental norms of public international law, significant customary international law principles and jurisprudence of relevant international Courts;
  2. Evaluate the principal institutions of the international legal system and the principle 'sources' of law that they apply in resolving disputes;
  3. Critically assess the major challenges to, and weaknesses and effectiveness of, public international law;
  4. Apply fundamental principles of public international law to contemporary issues and in problem solving;
  5. Produce clear, well structured, appropriately referenced, critical analysed arguments about salient points of international law.

Subject Content

The Nature and Development of International Law
The Structure of the International Legal System
Sources of International Law and The Law of Treaties
International Law and Municipal Law
Personality, Statehood and Recognition
Title to Territory and State Jurisdiction
Immunity from Jurisdiction and State Responsibility
Legal Regulation of the Use of Force by States
Specific Areas of International Law
Peaceful Settlement of International Disputes

Assessment

The following table summarises the standard assessment tasks for this subject. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated, where there is a difference your Learning Guide takes precedence.

Type Length Percent Threshold Individual/Group Task
Participation 10 N Individual
Essay 3,000 words 45 N Individual
Essay 4,000 words 45 N Individual

Prescribed Texts

  • Rothwell, DR et al, International Law: Cases and Materials with Australian Perspectives (Cambridge University Press, 3rd ed, 2018).

Teaching Periods

Spring (2024)

Parramatta - Victoria Rd

On-site

Subject Contact Meda Couzens Opens in new window

View timetable Opens in new window