LAW5377 - The use of force in international law - 2018

This unit first examines the prohibition on the use of force in international law and the exception of self-defence, including whether pre-emptive self-defence is lawful. It then considers the second exception, collective action authorised by the UN Security Council, the use of force by UN peacekeepers, and action by "coalitions of the willing". The unit analyses the right of a State to intervene in another State's civil war, the legality of humanitarian intervention, and the meaning and effect of the emerging doctrine of the responsibility to protect. Through study of the major international cases on the use of force, and the continuing disagreements among scholars, the unit reveals the complexities of these apparently simple rules.

1. Apply knowledge and understanding of the rule prohibiting the use of force under the UN Charter and customary international law and the exceptions to this rule with creativity and initiative to new situations in professional practice or for further learning;
2. Investigate, analyse and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts and theories in relation to the international law governing the use of force by States;
3. Conduct research into the international law governing the use of force by States based on knowledge of appropriate research principle and methods; and
4. Use cognitive, technical and creative skills to generate and evaluate at an abstract level complex ideas and concepts relevant to the international law governing the use of force by States.

Take-home exam (3,750 words): 50%

Research paper (3,750 words): 50%

24 contact hours per semester (either intensive, semi-intensive or semester long, depending on the Faculty resources, timetabling and requirements)