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Diego S. Díaz
and
Patagonia Freewill
The Evolution of International Criminal Law: History and Fundamental Doctrine is a course developed by the PFW project for scientific and humanities outreach. It is part of Fundamentals collection.
Read more
The Evolution of International Criminal Law: History and Fundamental Doctrine is a course developed by the PFW project for scientific and humanities outreach. It is part of Fundamentals collection.
Read more
The Evolution of International Criminal Law: History and Fundamental Doctrine is a course developed by the PFW project for scientific and humanities outreach. It is part of Fundamentals collection.
Fundamentals is a collection of virtual courses on Criminal Law at an introductory level (101) for continental and anglo legal systems so that they are a perfect option for university students of careers such as political science, law, and military sciences, who have not yet addressed these subjects, as well as for those more advanced students who want to review content or find new elements that perhaps were not included in their syllabus.
Fundamentals is a collection of content that allows it to cover a much broader audience. People of any profession or occupation can enjoy them without prior requirements. It is enough with appropriate reading comprehension and a desire to learn something new.
This course will teach the history and fundamental doctrine of International Criminal Law.
By fundamental doctrine, we refer to the essential terminology and crucial ideas to beginning the study of International Criminal Law.
Here we will study the important definitions, the objections to the existence of International Criminal Law, and its relationship with other areas of law, such as International Humanitarian Law and International Refugee Law. We will finish by studying the Just War Theory and then move on to the second section of the course, where we will study the evolution of International Criminal Law, beginning with the period before the First World War, the era after the Great War, the Interwar period, the World War II, the period after the World War II, the Cold War and the Post-cold War era.
Once this unit is finished, we will study the last essential points of the fundamental doctrine, the International Criminal Court, and the crimes covered by the Rome Statute: war crimes, the crime of aggression, genocide, and the crime against humanity.
In this way, and with just two hours of lectures, you will be able to form a solid base to later delve into more details and depth on International Criminal Law on your own.
Upon completing the course, you can request a digital certificate of participation from PFW for free; additionally, Udemy will automatically extend your certificate of completion.
All PFW project courses are created with pre-production contributions, which allows us to keep them at great discounts, and thus fulfill the objective of offering a high-quality program at incredible prices.
«*Incluye todas las clases y cuestionarios traducidos al español para estudiantes hispanohablantes.»
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
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What's inside
Learning objectives
- The evolution of icl before and after the great war
- The evolution of icl in the interwar period
- The evolution of icl during and after the world war ii
- The evolution of icl in the cold war
- The evolution of icl in the post-cold war era
- Fundamental doctrine of international criminal law
- The evolution of icl before and after the great war
- The evolution of icl in the interwar period
- The evolution of icl during and after the world war ii
- The evolution of icl in the cold war
- The evolution of icl in the post-cold war era
- Fundamental doctrine of international criminal law
Syllabus
Fundamental Doctrine. Part I
Definition of International Criminal Law (ICL)
Objections to the Existence of ICL
Protected Legal Goods
Read more
Syllabus
Fundamental Doctrine. Part I
Definition of International Criminal Law (ICL)
Objections to the Existence of ICL
Protected Legal Goods
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Provides an introductory-level (101) overview of International Criminal Law, making it suitable for students in political science, law, and military science seeking a foundational understanding
Explores the relationship between International Criminal Law and other areas of law, such as International Humanitarian Law and International Refugee Law, which is helpful for students seeking to understand its broader context
Requires appropriate reading comprehension, which may pose a barrier to entry for some learners without a strong background in legal or political terminology
Examines the evolution of International Criminal Law across different historical periods, including the World Wars and the Cold War, which is relevant for understanding its development
Covers the fundamental doctrine of International Criminal Law, including essential terminology and crucial ideas, which is useful for those beginning their study of the subject
Studies the International Criminal Court and the crimes covered by the Rome Statute, such as war crimes, genocide, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression, which are central to the field
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Reviews summary
Intro to international criminal law history
According to learners, this course serves as a positive and solid introductory point for understanding the history and fundamental concepts of International Criminal Law. Students particularly praise the excellent historical overview, finding it clear and easy to follow. While the course provides a good foundation, some reviewers note that the section on fundamental doctrine is brief and lacks depth, suggesting it's best suited for absolute beginners or those needing a quick brush-up. They also mention that relying solely on the lectures may not be sufficient, and engaging with supplemental readings and notes is needed for a fuller understanding, making the 'two hours' claim potentially misleading regarding the total learning time required.
Go beyond lectures for full value.
"the 'two hours of lectures' claim is a bit misleading, you definitely need more time to absorb everything..."
"you must engage with the readings and notes to get value."
"It's good for getting the lay of the land but requires significant follow-up reading."
Great starting point for new learners.
"Excellent introduction to ICL history and key concepts. The lectures were clear and concise, perfect for a beginner."
"As someone completely new to international law, this course was a fantastic starting point."
"Solid introductory course. It covers the basics as promised. Perfect for law students needing a quick overview..."
"I finished feeling I had a solid foundation to explore further."
History section is well-structured.
"The historical overview was particularly helpful in placing the concepts into context."
"The historical parts were strong..."
"The way it structured the history made complex ideas manageable."
"The historical evolution section is excellent and easy to follow."
"The historical timeline is the main strength."
Too basic if you have prior knowledge.
"Honestly, this felt very basic. If you have any background in law or history, much of this will be review."
"Not worth it if you already know the basics."
Core concepts lack detail.
"Good overview, but... the doctrinal definitions felt a bit rushed."
"the fundamental doctrine section is too brief. Concepts like... needed more detail."
"Felt more like a history course than a comprehensive ICL intro. Disappointed it wasn't deeper."
"The 'fundamental doctrine' is barely touched upon."
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 The Evolution of International Criminal Law with these
activities:
Review International Humanitarian Law
Show steps
Reviewing International Humanitarian Law will provide a solid foundation for understanding the relationship between ICL and IHL, as well as the context in which war crimes occur.
Browse courses on
International Humanitarian Law
Show steps
-
Review the core principles of IHL, such as distinction, proportionality, and necessity.
-
Study the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols.
-
Examine case studies where IHL principles were applied or violated.
Review 'International Criminal Law' by Antonio Cassese
Show steps
Reading this book will provide a comprehensive understanding of the field, supplementing the course's introductory content.
View
The Defence of Mistake of Law in International...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the chapters related to the historical development of ICL.
-
Focus on the sections discussing the principles of criminal responsibility.
-
Take notes on key concepts and legal precedents.
Create a timeline of ICL development
Show steps
Creating a visual timeline will help solidify your understanding of the historical evolution of ICL and its key milestones.
Show steps
-
Research key events and treaties in the history of ICL.
-
Organize the events chronologically on a timeline.
-
Add brief descriptions and images to each event.
-
Share the timeline with peers for feedback.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Review 'Prosecuting International Crimes' by Richard Goldstone
Show steps
Reading this book will provide practical insights into the challenges of prosecuting international crimes, complementing the theoretical knowledge gained in the course.
View
International Judicial Institutions: The...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the chapters focusing on the investigation and prosecution of specific international crimes.
-
Analyze the case studies presented in the book.
-
Consider the ethical dilemmas faced by prosecutors in international criminal law.
Research and present on a specific ICL case
Show steps
Conducting in-depth research on a specific ICL case will deepen your understanding of the application of ICL principles in practice.
Show steps
-
Select a case from the ICC or ad hoc tribunals.
-
Research the facts, legal issues, and outcome of the case.
-
Prepare a presentation summarizing your findings.
-
Present your research to peers and solicit feedback.
Draft a mock indictment for a war crime
Show steps
Drafting a mock indictment will allow you to apply your knowledge of ICL principles and procedures in a practical setting.
Show steps
-
Choose a specific war crime based on a hypothetical scenario.
-
Gather evidence and identify potential witnesses.
-
Draft the indictment, including the charges and supporting arguments.
-
Review and revise the indictment based on feedback from peers or instructors.
Review International Humanitarian Law
Show steps
Reviewing International Humanitarian Law will provide a solid foundation for understanding the relationship between ICL and IHL, as well as the context in which war crimes occur.
Browse courses on
International Humanitarian Law
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the core principles of IHL, such as distinction, proportionality, and necessity.
- Study the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols.
- Examine case studies where IHL principles were applied or violated.
Review 'International Criminal Law' by Antonio Cassese
Show steps
Reading this book will provide a comprehensive understanding of the field, supplementing the course's introductory content.
View
The Defence of Mistake of Law in International...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the chapters related to the historical development of ICL.
- Focus on the sections discussing the principles of criminal responsibility.
- Take notes on key concepts and legal precedents.
Create a timeline of ICL development
Show steps
Creating a visual timeline will help solidify your understanding of the historical evolution of ICL and its key milestones.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research key events and treaties in the history of ICL.
- Organize the events chronologically on a timeline.
- Add brief descriptions and images to each event.
- Share the timeline with peers for feedback.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Review 'Prosecuting International Crimes' by Richard Goldstone
Show steps
Reading this book will provide practical insights into the challenges of prosecuting international crimes, complementing the theoretical knowledge gained in the course.
View
International Judicial Institutions: The...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the chapters focusing on the investigation and prosecution of specific international crimes.
- Analyze the case studies presented in the book.
- Consider the ethical dilemmas faced by prosecutors in international criminal law.
Research and present on a specific ICL case
Show steps
Conducting in-depth research on a specific ICL case will deepen your understanding of the application of ICL principles in practice.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a case from the ICC or ad hoc tribunals.
- Research the facts, legal issues, and outcome of the case.
- Prepare a presentation summarizing your findings.
- Present your research to peers and solicit feedback.
Draft a mock indictment for a war crime
Show steps
Drafting a mock indictment will allow you to apply your knowledge of ICL principles and procedures in a practical setting.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific war crime based on a hypothetical scenario.
- Gather evidence and identify potential witnesses.
- Draft the indictment, including the charges and supporting arguments.
- Review and revise the indictment based on feedback from peers or instructors.
Career center
Learners who complete The Evolution of International Criminal Law will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
International Relations Specialist
International Relations Specialist
An International Relations Specialist analyzes global political and legal issues, and this course on the Evolution of International Criminal Law directly informs this work. The course covers the history of international criminal law and treaties, including the Rome Statute and the International Criminal Court. An understanding of the evolution of international law as covered by this course, including the legal doctrines and historical context, helps the specialist understand the complexities of international relations, including conflict and cooperation, as well as the evolution of the laws of war. Learners who desire this career path should take this course as it presents the legal framework in the international sphere.
Human Rights Advocate
Human Rights Advocate
A Human Rights Advocate works to protect human rights, and this course on the Evolution of International Criminal Law directly informs this career. The course covers areas of international law such as genocide and crimes against humanity, and the institutions that are used to prosecute them. The understanding of evolution of international law and the framework of international criminal law that this course provides makes it very useful for a human rights advocate. This course also explores the relationship between international criminal law and international human rights law.
Political Scientist
Political Scientist
A Political Scientist studies political systems and behavior and this course on the Evolution of International Criminal Law provides valuable context for this career. The course explores the history of international criminal law, the function of the International Criminal Court, and the relationship of ICL to other legal areas. The course offers insights into the development of international law and its impact on state behavior. For those looking to work in Political Science, this course may provide a useful tool.
Legal Analyst
Legal Analyst
A Legal Analyst researches and interprets laws and legal documents, and this course about the Evolution of International Criminal Law can help build a foundation in this field specializing in international law. The course explores the fundamental doctrines of international criminal law, such as the definition of ICL, objections to its existence, and its relationship with other fields of law like international humanitarian law. A legal analyst working in this area would benefit from understanding the history and evolution of ICL, including the various legal frameworks and treaties. If you are looking to work in the field of law, this course may be useful to you.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
A Policy Analyst researches and analyzes policies, and this course on the Evolution of International Criminal Law may be useful for a policy analyst whose focus is international relations. This course provides a look at the historical context and evolution of international law, including the creation of the International Criminal Court and its jurisdiction. It also explores the relation of international criminal law to related fields. This course may help those looking to work in these emerging areas of policy.
Academic Researcher
Academic Researcher
An Academic Researcher conducts in-depth studies in a specific field, and this course on the Evolution of International Criminal Law helps build a foundation in the study of international criminal law for researchers. The course provides a detailed historical overview of the evolution of international criminal law, including its institutions and key concepts. An academic researcher focused on international relations or law would benefit from understanding the evolution of international legal concepts. An individual interested in pursuing a career in academic research, may find this course helpful.
Lawyer
Lawyer
A lawyer advises clients on legal matters or represents them in court, and this course on the Evolution of International Criminal Law may be useful for a lawyer whose focus is international criminal law. The course goes into the history of international criminal law and institutions, including international humanitarian law. A lawyer whose practice is related to international issues would benefit from this history and analysis. If you are in law school or otherwise are on the path to becoming a lawyer, this course may be useful to you.
Political Risk Analyst
Political Risk Analyst
A Political Risk Analyst assesses potential political risks for organizations, and this course on the Evolution of International Criminal Law can be helpful. The course's examination of the historical development of international law, and the evolution of the International Criminal Court, offers a lens through which to understand the international political landscape. A political risk analyst must understand international relations, treaties, and conflicts, and this course may complement that knowledge. The study of the legal environment that shapes international relations is an important topic, and this course can help with that.
Paralegal
Paralegal
A Paralegal assists lawyers in legal tasks, and this course on the Evolution of International Criminal Law may be useful to a paralegal whose role includes the area of international law. The course's exploration of the history of international criminal law and its relationship to other areas of international law provides a helpful background for paralegals working in this field. Paralegals working with lawyers who specialize in international law will find that this course may be helpful to their understanding.
Diplomat
Diplomat
A Diplomat represents a country's interests in international relations, and this course on the Evolution of International Criminal Law may be useful for those seeking this career path. The course covers the history of ICL and its institutions, important definitions, and the laws of war, all of which inform diplomacy. A diplomat needs to understand the history and evolution of international law and how it shapes relations between nations. This course may provide helpful context in the context of international criminal law.
Intelligence Analyst
Intelligence Analyst
An Intelligence Analyst gathers and interprets information to inform national security, and this course on the Evolution of International Criminal Law may be useful. The course explores international criminal law, including the laws of war, and the evolution of international legal concepts, all of which can be important to national security. An intelligence analyst may benefit from the course's coverage of the development of modern international criminal law. This course may provide a helpful look into the legal landscape in the international sphere.
Lobbyist
Lobbyist
A lobbyist advocates for specific policies, and this course on the Evolution of International Criminal Law might be useful for a lobbyist whose work focuses on international legal issues. The course examines the development and context of international criminal law, which may help to inform a lobbyist's understanding of international issues. A lobbyist who seeks to advocate for a client that would be affected by international law may find this course useful. This course may be helpful for those looking to work in this field.
Nonprofit Program Manager
Nonprofit Program Manager
A Nonprofit Program Manager oversees the operations of a nonprofit's programs, and this course on the Evolution of International Criminal Law may be useful if the program deals with international law or human rights. The course provides a history of international law, including the International Criminal Court and the laws surrounding the crime of aggression, genocide, and crimes against humanity. A program manager will be able to use what they learn from this course. This course may serve those looking to work in this field with a focus on legal issues.
Archivist
Archivist
An Archivist manages historical records, and this course on the Evolution of International Criminal Law may add useful context for an archivist working with international law collections. This course presents a history of international criminal law, international humanitarian law, and international refugee law, providing useful context for the various historical documents associated with those areas. An archivist may find that an understanding of the development of international criminal law may be of help in preserving and managing legal documents. Although this course will not train an archivist, it may be beneficial to understanding some types of archives.
Curator
Curator
A Curator manages and interprets collections, and this course on the Evolution of International Criminal Law may be helpful for a curator working with certain collections. The course's overview of the history of international criminal law, including the evolution of the International Criminal Court, may provide useful context for someone working in a museum with related collections. The course's historical perspective may benefit a curator who works with collections that relate to international relations or law. Although this course will not train a curator, it may be useful for understanding some of the historical aspects of international law.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/sffdo4/the
Reading list
We've selected two 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
The Evolution of International Criminal Law.
Comprehensive overview of international criminal law, covering its history, principles, and institutions. It is widely regarded as a leading textbook in the field and is often used by students and practitioners alike. It provides in-depth analysis of the core crimes under international law and the workings of the International Criminal Court. This book adds significant depth to the course material.
Offers insights into the practical challenges of prosecuting international crimes. It is written by practitioners with extensive experience in international criminal tribunals. It provides a valuable perspective on the complexities of investigating and prosecuting genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. This book serves as additional reading to provide more breadth to the existing course.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/sffdo4/the
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