Course Description

Welcome to the fascinating world of International Law! This advanced-level course, offered by LouvainX, is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and applications of international law in our increasingly interconnected global community. As the cornerstone of diplomacy and international relations, international law serves as the common language between nations, governing their interactions and shaping the world we live in.

What Students Will Learn

• The fundamentals of international law and its role in today's world
• How international law is created, implemented, and enforced
• The key actors in international law, including states, international organizations, and non-state entities
• The process of seeking justice and resolving disputes in the international arena
• The application of international law in various contexts, including peace and security
• How to analyze and interpret legal arguments in international news and reports

Prerequisites

While no prior knowledge of international law is required, students should:

• Be comfortable with graduate-level coursework
• Preferably have taken some law courses to familiarize themselves with legal concepts and terminology
• Have strong English language skills, as the course is conducted entirely in English

Course Content

• Introduction to international law and its historical context
• The role of states, international organizations, and the United Nations
• Sources of international law, including treaties and customary law
• Application and interpretation of international law
• State responsibility and accountability
• Dispute resolution mechanisms and international courts
• The use of force and collective security in international law

Who This Course Is For

• Law students looking to specialize in international law
• Professionals in diplomacy, international relations, or global business
• Journalists and analysts covering international affairs
• NGO workers and activists involved in global issues
• Anyone interested in understanding the legal framework of global politics and international relations

Real-World Applications

• Analyzing international treaties and agreements
• Understanding the legal implications of global events and conflicts
• Advising on cross-border business transactions and foreign investments
• Participating in international negotiations and dispute resolution processes
• Advocating for human rights and environmental protection on a global scale
• Assessing the legality of state actions in the international arena

Syllabus

1. Introducing International Law
2. Setting the International Law Stage
3. Making International Law (part 1)
4. Making International Law (part 2)
5. Applying International Law
6. Claiming responsibility
7. Seeking Justice
8. Upholding Peace

Each module covers specific topics and subtopics, providing a comprehensive overview of international law. The course extensively relies on judgments and advisory opinions from the International Court of Justice, offering practical insights into the application of international law.

Conclusion

By the end of this course, you will have gained a solid foundation in international law, preparing you for further studies in specialized areas such as international human rights, humanitarian law, or international investment law. Join us on this exciting journey to explore the intricate world of international law and its profound impact on global affairs!