Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit will address the 'rights based approach' to international development, and the evolution of development theory. The intersection between human rights and development will be explored, including identification of relevant legal obligations; particular human rights such as the rights of women and the rights to health and education; consideration of the role of various international actors such as governments and the World Bank; and the role of international development NGOs. Particular reference will be made to the United Nations Millennium Development Goals.

Objectives

Upon completion of this unit, students should:

1. appreciate the historical growth of the international development movement since 1945 and understand the key debates in development practice
2. understand the role of law in development and the history of the law and development movement
3. understand and be able to analyse and critically comment on the theoretical debates about the role of law in development
4. understand and be able to analyse and critically comment on the intersection between international human rights law and international development goals and practice
5. understand and be able to analyse and critically comment on the variety of ways in which international human rights law may be used to set and achieve international development goals, and enhance development practice
6. be able to critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of attempts by the UN and other multilateral bodies to develop a "rights based" approach to development
7. be able to critically evaluation the role of non-State actors, particularly international development NGOs in the protection and realisation of international human rights
8. analyse the extent to which Australia's obligations under international human rights law relate to the aims and obligations of its foreign aid programme
9. be able to identify, understand, evaluate and apply relevant principles, laws and precedents and apply them to enhance current approaches to international development.

Assessment

Research paper (6,750 words): 90%
Class participation: 10%

Chief examiner(s)

Mr Jeremy Perelman

Prerequisites

LAW7026