INTERNATIONAL LAW

The course is a constitutive part of the bachelor degree in Philosophy, international and economic studies (Attività formative affini o integrative) and it is designed to provide basic knowledge of international law, with some insights into current issues.
The aim of this course is two-fold:
1) to equip students with legal language necessary to understand basic international legal instruments;
2) to equip the student with critical legal reasoning skills so that they can apply what they learn in the books in the analysis of current phenomena.

At the end of the course the students:
1) should demonstrate knowledge and understanding in international law, of the subjects and sources of international law, of the mechanisms of resolution of disputes, of the prohibition of the use of force, of human rights law;
2) could apply their knowledge and understanding in a manner that indicates a professional approach to their possible work or vocation (internships and work in NGOs, international organisations, agencies, etc), in particular concerning the mechanisms of protection of human rights;
3) should have the ability to gather and interpret relevant legal instruments (both soft and hard law) of the present situation to elaborate legal reasonings that include reflection on relevant legal and political issues;
4) could communicate information, ideas, problems and solutions to both specialist and non-specialist audiences;
5) should have developed those learning skills that are necessary for them to continue to undertake more advanced courses or further study with a high degree of autonomy.

A basic knowledge of law might be useful, although not compulsory.

Introduction: evolution of international law and the international community

1: The nature of international law and the international system
2: The sources of international law
3: The law of treaties
4: International law and national law
5: Personality, statehood and recognition
6: Jurisdiction and sovereignty
7: Immunities from national jurisdiction
8: The law of the sea
9: State responsibility
10: The peaceful settlement of disputes
11: The use of force
12: Human rights

Current challenges: international environmental and climate change law, international migration law, gender equality.

Jan Klabbers, International Law, CUP, 3. ed. ALL chapters.


Further material will be available on moodle.
Students will be provided with cases to be discussed in class.


Additional readings (for those who would like to continue his/her studies in international law):
Carreau-Marrella, Diritto internazionale (Giuffrè lat. ed.) also available in French.
Evans, International law (Cambridge, lat. ed.)

Multiple choice text (20 questions) plus two open questions.

The exam is aimed at assessing knowledge and understanding of international law, of the subjects and sources of international law, of the mechanisms of resolution of disputes, of the prohibition of the use of force, of human rights law.

The open questions will verify the capacity of the student to support an argument and apply what studied in the book to current situations and international crises.

Evaluation.
18-21:
- sufficient knowledge and understanding of international law;
- limited ability to solve simple legal questions;
- sufficient communication skills, especially in relation to the use of specific language.
22-24:
- fair knowledge and understanding of international law;
- fair ability to solve simple legal questions;
- fair communication skills, especially in relation to the use of specific legal language.
25-27:
- good knowledge and understanding of international law;
- good ability to solve simple legal questions;
- appropriate communication skills, especially in relation to the use of specific legal language.
28-30
- very good knowledge and understanding of international law;
- very good ability to solve simple legal questions;
- fully appropriate communication skills, especially in relation to the use of specific legal language.
Honours will be awarded in the presence of applied knowledge and understanding with reference to the syllabus, ability to connect legal concepts and communication skills, excellent.

Lectures. Interaction in class is encouraged on current issues.

English

Accessibility, Disability and Inclusion
Accommodation and support services for students with disabilities and students with specific learning impairments

Ca' Foscari abides by Italian Law (Law 17/1999; Law 170/2010) regarding support services and accommodation available to students with disabilities. This includes students with mobility, visual, hearing and other disabilities (Law 17/1999), and specific learning impairments (Law 170/2010). If you have a disability or impairment that requires accommodations (i.e., alternate testing, readers, note takers or interpreters) please contact the Disability and Accessibility Offices in Student Services: disabilita@unive.it.

written

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "Poverty and inequalities" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development