LAW4184 - International criminal law - 2019

This unit will explore how the international community has responded to the most heinous international crimes, such as genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and aggression, through the prism of the international criminal trial. Students will be introduced to the major historical moments in the development of international criminal law as a discrete field of international law; the key principles, concepts and rules comprising this area of law; and the principal institutions that enforce it. There is a particular focus upon the International Criminal Court, as the first and only permanent international criminal justice institution in the world.

1. Articulate and apply principles of international criminal law; and, in terms of those principles, critically evaluate the doctrines and processes of international criminal law as they have developed historically.
2. Examine the theoretical and policy concerns underpinning the law, as well as the broader political and social context within which international criminal law issues arise.
3. Analyse and interpret key documents which codify and illustrate international criminal law, through their application to complex case scenarios.
4. Collaborate and communicate effectively, appropriately and persuasively on issues pertaining to the development of international criminal law and its implementation by applicable institutions.
5. Learn and work with autonomy, accountability and professionalism, using reflection and feedback to improve their own capabilities and performance.

Assessment

Attendance and participation: 10%

Reading note exercise/small group assignment (1,000 words): 20%

In class test: 10%

Take home examination (3,000 words): 60%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. The unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information