LAW5118

Pacific comparative law 506

(LAW)

Not offered in 2000

6 points + Two 2-hour classes per week + Clayton

Synopsis: Historical, cultural, political and legal /maps0 of the Pacific Island region, including Australia and New Zealand. Comparative methodology and interdisciplinary approaches to the study of law. Traditional political systems, the colonial imprint, sovereignty and dependency, choice of constitutional models, the roles of courts, and techniques for checking power. Sources of law, derivations from customary law, statute and common law, recognition of indigenous (including Aboriginal) law, human rights and techniques of dispute settlement. Land rights (including Mabo and the Waitangi Tribunal), management of natural resources, and regulation of commerce and investment. Organisations and treaties.

Assessment: Class test (50 minutes): 10% + Work-in-progress presentation: 10% + Research paper (5000-6000 words): 80%