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Pierre d’Argent
International law can be considered as the law of the international community, the law that governs relations between States. But it also relates to what international organizations do and, increasingly, it concerns individuals, corporations, NGO's and other non-state actors.
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International law can be considered as the law of the international community, the law that governs relations between States. But it also relates to what international organizations do and, increasingly, it concerns individuals, corporations, NGO's and other non-state actors.
Read more
International law can be considered as the law of the international community, the law that governs relations between States. But it also relates to what international organizations do and, increasingly, it concerns individuals, corporations, NGO's and other non-state actors.
As the world becomes more interdependent and more complex, and as new institutions are put in place to make international law more effective, international law has become an exciting, expanding field. Never before has it been so relied upon, used and developed. Despite their differences in size, power, culture, religion and ideologies, states rely on international law to cooperate and to coexist; they speak the language of international law and international law serves them as an important common language.
This law course will extensively rely on judgments and advisory opinions of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations (UN).
Having acquired a basic knowledge of international law, you'll find it easier to comprehend this subject in future international law sub-fields, like international human rights, international humanitarian law or international investment law.
This course will teach you what international law is, the role it plays in the world today, how it can be used. You will also gain knowledge to help you better discern legal arguments within the flow of international news and reports.
This course is part of the International Law MicroMasters Program that is designed to give learners a critical understanding of how international relations between States and individuals are dealt with, regarding the law.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/s51qnq/international
What's inside
Learning objectives
- How, and by whom, international law is made, by whom it must be respected, and how it is applied
- What happens when binding rules are breached and how is it possible to seek justice in this world
- How, and by whom, international law is made, by whom it must be respected, and how it is applied
- What happens when binding rules are breached and how is it possible to seek justice in this world
Syllabus
1. Introducing International Law1.1. What is International law1.2. A brief history1.3. International law as a common language
2. Setting the International Law Stage2.1. States2.2. International Organizations2.3. United Nations
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Syllabus
1. Introducing International Law1.1. What is International law1.2. A brief history1.3. International law as a common language
2. Setting the International Law Stage2.1. States2.2. International Organizations2.3. United Nations
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Appropriate for those with a background in international law
Might be too technical for beginners
Provides a solid foundation for understanding international law
Adequately covers the main themes and issues of international law
Will give learners a sense of the connection between national and international law
Might require supplementary materials for a comprehensive understanding
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Reviews summary
Solid foundation in international law
Learners say this course provides a solid foundation in international law, covering core concepts and sources effectively. Many praise the well-structured syllabus and the use of ICJ case examples to illustrate theoretical points, finding the lecturer knowledgeable and clear. However, some students note the heavy workload, particularly the extensive readings, and mention that the course is heavily theory-focused, lacking practical application. Learners also suggest that some prior legal knowledge is helpful, as the course can feel challenging if completely new to law. Overall, it is seen as an excellent introduction but requires significant dedication.
Learn through real-world ICJ judgments.
"The lecturer was clear and the ICJ case examples were highly relevant."
"The way Professor [Instructor Name] explains complex concepts using ICJ cases is brilliant."
"The use of case law is very effective."
"The course heavily relies on ICJ decisions."
Logical flow and organized modules.
"A very solid introduction. ... The structure is logical."
"Fantastic course! The lectures are well-organized..."
"Excellent foundation. The structure is logical, building block by block."
Knowledgeable and clear explanations.
"The lecturer was clear and the ICJ case examples were highly relevant."
"The way Professor [Instructor Name] explains complex concepts using ICJ cases is brilliant."
"The professor is knowledgeable and passionate."
"The professor is excellent and explains complex ideas clearly."
Provides a comprehensive overview.
"Excellent foundational course! ... Perfect for someone new to international law."
"It really lays a strong foundation for understanding international law."
"This course provides a comprehensive overview of the key principles."
"Overall I feel I have a good grasp of the basics now."
May be challenging without prior legal knowledge.
"Found this course quite difficult to follow. Assumes too much prior knowledge..."
"I struggled significantly with this course. ... Assumed familiarity with legal concepts I didn't have."
Heavily focused on theory, less practical.
"The course provides a good overview but it's strictly theoretical. I was hoping for more practical application..."
"Found this course quite difficult to follow. ... Felt very academic and abstract. Didn't provide much in the way of practical application."
Requires significant time for readings.
"Some parts were a bit dense, and the readings were extensive, but overall I feel I have a good grasp of the basics now."
"The readings list was comprehensive, almost overwhelming at times."
"Relies heavily on you doing the extensive readings."
"The readings are heavy but necessary."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in International Law with these
activities:
Organize Course Notes and Materials
Show steps
Stay organized and enhance your ability to review and retain information by creating a comprehensive system for compiling and organizing course notes and materials.
Browse courses on
Note-Taking
Show steps
-
Create a dedicated folder or notebook for course materials.
-
Develop a consistent note-taking method and stick to it.
-
Regularly review your notes and highlight important concepts.
-
Organize your notes by topic or module.
-
Add additional resources, such as articles or videos, to your compilation.
Review Basic Laws
Show steps
Refresh your foundational knowledge of core international laws to prepare for more advanced concepts in this course.
Show steps
-
Read and summarize key articles on international law from reputable sources.
-
Review your notes or textbooks from previous international law courses, if applicable.
-
Practice explaining the basic principles of international law to a peer or family member.
Analyze News Articles on International Law
Show steps
Connect international law concepts to real-world events by analyzing news articles and identifying legal implications.
Browse courses on
International Law
Show steps
-
Select news articles that cover international law-related issues.
-
Read and summarize the articles, highlighting key legal points.
-
Identify the relevant international law principles and rules.
-
Analyze the legal arguments and implications presented in the articles.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Explore ICJ Case Studies
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of how international law is applied in real-world scenarios by analyzing judgments and advisory opinions of the International Court of Justice.
Browse courses on
International Court of Justice
Show steps
-
Select a significant ICJ case study relevant to the course topics.
-
Read the ICJ judgment or advisory opinion thoroughly.
-
Analyze the legal reasoning, arguments, and outcomes of the case.
-
Summarize your findings in a brief written report or presentation.
Read 'International Law' by Malcolm N. Shaw
Show steps
Gain a comprehensive overview of international law from a renowned expert to supplement your course knowledge.
View
International Law
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read each chapter thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts.
-
Summarize the main arguments and perspectives presented in the book.
-
Identify areas where the book aligns or differs from the course materials.
Develop an International Law Glossary
Show steps
Enhance your understanding and retention of key international law terms and concepts by creating a comprehensive glossary.
Show steps
-
Identify and list important terms and concepts covered in the course.
-
Research and define each term accurately using credible sources.
-
Organize the terms alphabetically or by category.
-
Provide examples or illustrations to clarify the meaning of each term.
-
Review and refine your glossary regularly.
Draft a Legal Memorandum on an International Law Issue
Show steps
Demonstrate your ability to apply international law principles and conduct legal research by drafting a comprehensive legal memorandum on a chosen topic.
Browse courses on
International Law
Show steps
-
Select an international law issue or case for your memorandum.
-
Conduct thorough research using legal databases and credible sources.
-
Analyze relevant international law principles and rules.
-
Develop a persuasive argument and structure your memorandum accordingly.
-
Proofread and refine your memorandum for clarity and accuracy.
Organize Course Notes and Materials
Show steps
Stay organized and enhance your ability to review and retain information by creating a comprehensive system for compiling and organizing course notes and materials.
Browse courses on
Note-Taking
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a dedicated folder or notebook for course materials.
- Develop a consistent note-taking method and stick to it.
- Regularly review your notes and highlight important concepts.
- Organize your notes by topic or module.
- Add additional resources, such as articles or videos, to your compilation.
Review Basic Laws
Show steps
Refresh your foundational knowledge of core international laws to prepare for more advanced concepts in this course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read and summarize key articles on international law from reputable sources.
- Review your notes or textbooks from previous international law courses, if applicable.
- Practice explaining the basic principles of international law to a peer or family member.
Analyze News Articles on International Law
Show steps
Connect international law concepts to real-world events by analyzing news articles and identifying legal implications.
Browse courses on
International Law
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select news articles that cover international law-related issues.
- Read and summarize the articles, highlighting key legal points.
- Identify the relevant international law principles and rules.
- Analyze the legal arguments and implications presented in the articles.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Explore ICJ Case Studies
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of how international law is applied in real-world scenarios by analyzing judgments and advisory opinions of the International Court of Justice.
Browse courses on
International Court of Justice
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a significant ICJ case study relevant to the course topics.
- Read the ICJ judgment or advisory opinion thoroughly.
- Analyze the legal reasoning, arguments, and outcomes of the case.
- Summarize your findings in a brief written report or presentation.
Read 'International Law' by Malcolm N. Shaw
Show steps
Gain a comprehensive overview of international law from a renowned expert to supplement your course knowledge.
View
International Law
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read each chapter thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts.
- Summarize the main arguments and perspectives presented in the book.
- Identify areas where the book aligns or differs from the course materials.
Develop an International Law Glossary
Show steps
Enhance your understanding and retention of key international law terms and concepts by creating a comprehensive glossary.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and list important terms and concepts covered in the course.
- Research and define each term accurately using credible sources.
- Organize the terms alphabetically or by category.
- Provide examples or illustrations to clarify the meaning of each term.
- Review and refine your glossary regularly.
Draft a Legal Memorandum on an International Law Issue
Show steps
Demonstrate your ability to apply international law principles and conduct legal research by drafting a comprehensive legal memorandum on a chosen topic.
Browse courses on
International Law
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select an international law issue or case for your memorandum.
- Conduct thorough research using legal databases and credible sources.
- Analyze relevant international law principles and rules.
- Develop a persuasive argument and structure your memorandum accordingly.
- Proofread and refine your memorandum for clarity and accuracy.
Career center
Learners who complete International Law will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Professor of International Law
Professor of International Law
Professors of international law teach and research international law. They must have a strong understanding of the international legal system, and must be able to effectively communicate their knowledge to students. This course will give you the knowledge and skills to be successful in this role.
International Criminal Lawyer
International Criminal Lawyer
International criminal lawyers prosecute and defend individuals accused of international crimes. They must have a strong understanding of international law, and must be able to effectively represent their clients in court. This course will give you the knowledge and skills to be successful in this role.
Judge
Judge
Judges preside over legal proceedings and make decisions based on the law. They must have a strong understanding of the law, and must be able to apply it fairly and impartially. This course will give you a strong foundation in international law to help you be successful in this role.
Human Rights Lawyer
Human Rights Lawyer
Human rights lawyers protect the rights of individuals and groups. They may work for governments, NGOs, or international organizations. This course will give you the knowledge and skills to understand the international legal framework for human rights, and will help you to be more effective in this role.
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign service officers represent their country abroad. They work in embassies and consulates, and are responsible for promoting their country's interests. This course will give you the knowledge and skills to understand the international legal framework, and will help you to be more effective in this role.
International Development Specialist
International Development Specialist
International development specialists work to improve the lives of people in developing countries. They may work for governments, NGOs, or international organizations. This course will give you the knowledge and skills to understand the legal issues related to international development, and will help you to be more effective in this role.
Regulatory Affairs Specialist
Regulatory Affairs Specialist
Regulatory affairs specialists ensure that products and services comply with government regulations. They must have a strong understanding of the law, and must be able to effectively communicate with both internal and external stakeholders. This course will give you the knowledge and skills to be successful in this role.
Diplomat
Diplomat
Diplomats represent their countries' interests abroad. They negotiate with foreign governments and promote their own country's economic and political goals. The study of international law is an essential part of this role, and this course will build your foundation in how international law is used in diplomacy.
Legal Counsel
Legal Counsel
Legal counsels provide legal advice to businesses and organizations. They must have a strong understanding of the law, and must be able to effectively communicate their advice to clients. This course will give you the knowledge and skills to be successful in this role.
Compliance Officer
Compliance Officer
Compliance officers ensure that businesses comply with the law. They must have a strong understanding of the law, and must be able to effectively communicate with both internal and external stakeholders. This course will give you the knowledge and skills to be successful in this role.
Mediator
Mediator
Mediators help parties resolve disputes. They must have a strong understanding of the law, and must be able to effectively communicate with both parties. This course will give you the knowledge and skills to be successful in this role.
International Business Consultant
International Business Consultant
International business consultants help companies navigate the complex world of international business. They advise companies on how to comply with international law, and help them to understand the legal risks involved in doing business in other countries. This course will give you the knowledge and skills to be successful in this role.
Policy Advisor
Policy Advisor
Policy advisors research and make recommendations on policy issues. This course will provide you with the knowledge to understand how international law affects policymaking. You will also learn how to research and write effectively, which is essential for success in this role.
International Relations Manager
International Relations Manager
International relations managers facilitate international deals. They must understand how international law can affect those deals, and must also understand how to interpret international law in order to ensure that their company is in compliance. This course will provide a foundation in international law to help you be effective in this role.
Attorney
Attorney
Attorneys, also known as lawyers, represent clients in legal matters. As the advisor to your clients, you can help them interact with the legal system, and in particular with international law. The course may also be helpful for building a strong foundation in how international law is created, enforced, and interpreted.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/s51qnq/international
Reading list
We've selected 36 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
International Law.
Save
This textbook comprehensive introduction to international law, covering the core concepts and principles of the field. It provides a solid foundation for understanding the role of international law in the contemporary world.
This classic work provides a detailed analysis of the sources of international law, including customary law, treaties, and general principles. It is an essential reference for anyone interested in the foundations of international law.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of international law.
This monumental work comprehensive treatise on international law. It covers a wide range of topics, from the history of international law to the law of war. It is an indispensable resource for scholars and practitioners alike.
Provides a collection of cases and materials on international law, which can be used to supplement the course readings.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of international law.
Save
This textbook is written by leading experts in international law, provides in-depth analysis of key cases and materials. It will provide practical examples and insights into how international law is applied in the real world.
Provides a detailed examination of the international law of armed conflict. It covers the major topics of the law of war, including the use of force, the protection of civilians, and the conduct of hostilities.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the relationship between international law and international relations.
Provides a problem-oriented approach to international law, which helps students to understand the complex issues involved in international law.
Provides a comprehensive overview of international humanitarian law.
Provides a critical analysis of the relationship between international law and international relations. It examines the ways in which international law shapes and is shaped by political and economic forces.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the law on the use of force in international law.
Provides a concise and accessible introduction to the key concepts and principles of international law.
Provides a concise and accessible introduction to the international legal system. It covers the major topics of international law, including its history, sources, and enforcement, and it is written in a clear and engaging style.
While this book has a focus specifically on the relationship between international law and Australian law, it offers valuable insights into the ways that international law is incorporated into domestic legal systems and how it can be used to inform domestic legal decision-making.
Save
Explores the relationship between international law and international relations. It provides a theoretical framework for understanding the role of law in the international system, and it examines the ways in which law can be used to promote peace and cooperation.
Save
This textbook offers a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of public international law. It covers a wide range of topics, including statehood, jurisdiction, human rights, and environmental law.
Provides a detailed examination of the International Criminal Court and the crime of aggression. It covers the history, jurisdiction, and procedures of the ICC, as well as the definition and elements of the crime of aggression.
Provides a comprehensive analysis of the law governing the use of force in international relations. It examines the legal justifications for the use of force, the limits on the use of force, and the consequences of using force.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the law of international organizations. It covers the major topics of the law of international organizations, including their structure, functions, and immunities.
This textbook examines the sources of international law from a historical and comparative perspective. It is an excellent resource for scholars and practitioners who are interested in the foundations of the international legal system.
Provides a comprehensive overview of international humanitarian law. It covers the history of international humanitarian law, the sources of international humanitarian law, and the different types of international humanitarian law. It also examines the challenges to the implementation of international humanitarian law.
This textbook examines the relationship between international law and international relations. It is an excellent resource for students and scholars who are interested in the role of law in shaping international politics.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of international environmental law. It covers topics such as the history of international environmental law, the different types of international environmental agreements, and the mechanisms for enforcing international environmental law.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of international organizations. It covers topics such as the history of international organizations, the different types of international organizations, and the legal framework for international organizations.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of international economic law. It covers topics such as the history of international economic law, the different types of international economic agreements, and the mechanisms for enforcing international economic law.
Provides a comprehensive overview of international investment law. It covers the history of international investment law, the sources of international investment law, and the different types of international investment law. It also examines the challenges to the implementation of international investment law.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of human rights law. It covers topics such as the history of human rights, the different types of human rights, and the mechanisms for enforcing human rights.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of international intellectual property law. It covers topics such as the history of international intellectual property law, the different types of intellectual property rights, and the mechanisms for enforcing international intellectual property law.
Provides a comprehensive overview of international environmental law. It covers the history of international environmental law, the sources of international environmental law, and the different types of international environmental law. It also examines the challenges to the implementation of international environmental law.
Provides a comprehensive overview of international criminal law. It covers the history of international criminal law, the sources of international criminal law, and the different types of international criminal law. It also examines the challenges to the implementation of international criminal law.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of international dispute resolution. It covers the different methods of international dispute resolution, including negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and adjudication. It also examines the challenges to the implementation of international dispute resolution.
Provides a comprehensive overview of international organizations. It covers the history of international organizations, the different types of international organizations, and the role of international organizations in the contemporary world.
Save
Provides a critical analysis of the future of international law. It examines the challenges facing international law in the 21st century and the ways in which international law can be reformed to meet these challenges.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the state of international law in the 21st century. It examines the major trends and developments in international law and the challenges facing international law in the years to come.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/s51qnq/international
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Rating
4.3
Effort
6 to 8 hours per week for 12 weeks
Level
Advanced
Via
edX
Institution
Université catholique de Louvain
Instructor
Pierre d’Argent
Language
English
Transcript
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
International Law. It's comprised of five courses:
- International Human Rights Law
- International Law (viewing)
- International Humanitarian Law
- International Investment Law
- Asylum and Refugee Law
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