LPD & Events

LAWS6062 - International Law & The Use of Armed Force

Objectives

Understand and gain a sound knowledge of the legal principles and rules governing the resort to armed force by States.
Analyse a complex factual situation, recognise the issues arising, and determine the international legal rights and responsibilities of the parties involved.
Gain awareness and understanding of current issues relating to the use of force and United Nations practice in matters affecting international peace and security.

Content

The legal principles and rules governing the resort to force by States; operation of the relevant provisions of the United Nations Charter dealing with the use of force, self-defence and collective security; relevant state practice in interpreting the United Nations Charter; the legal issues arising from the use of force against terrorism; the "Bush Doctrine" of pre-emptive self-defence and its legality under international law; legality of the use of force to assist rebels; the role of the United Nations in peace-building, peace-making, peace-keeping, and peace enforcement; and the legal issues arising from humanitarian intervention and the emerging principle of the responsibility to protect.

Session

Semester 2 Intensive
11, 12 & 18, 19 October 2013

The timetable is subject to frequent changes. Please refer to the latest version of the Postgraduate Timetable.

Assessment

1 x 8,000 Word Research Essay (100%)

Prohibition

LAWS3483 War Law: Use of Force & Humanitarian Law and LAWS5183 War Law: Use of Force & Humanitarian Law

Legal Professional Development (LPD)

You can credit this unit towards Legal Professional Development (LPD). Units of study that are part of Sydney Law School’s Postgraduate Program meet the necessary Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) of the Law Society of New South Wales and the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements of the New South Wales Bar Association. You may complete this unit of study by enrolling on a non-degree basis or on an audit basis only with no assessment via Single Unit Enrolment.