Public international law studies the legal relationships of states and international organisations. Its academic themes include the sources of international law, treaties, diplomacy, human rights, humanitarian questions and the legal dimensions of shared global problems.
Foundations and sources
An introduction considers the principles and sources through which international legal arguments are developed. The relationship between states and international organisations provides a setting for examining cooperation, obligations and disagreements. The International Private Law guide provides a related comparison while keeping private cross-border relationships distinct from public international law.
Treaties, diplomacy and rights
The law of treaties and diplomatic law provide important areas of inquiry. Case studies can examine how legal principles are invoked in relations between states and how different interpretations are presented. The Politics and International Relations guide offers related context for separating legal interpretation from questions about institutions, diplomacy and political choice.
Trade, environment and interdisciplinary questions
International trade law and environmental law connect legal analysis with economic and political questions. Studying trade agreements, for example, can bring together the legal terms of an agreement and the wider context in which it operates. The Economics guide adds related reading on trade, incentives and the assumptions involved in an economic argument.
Political science and economics provide useful perspectives for examining global governance. Interdisciplinary work should make clear which claims concern legal interpretation and which concern political choices, incentives or economic effects.
Research, argument and practical learning
Legal research involves identifying relevant sources, evaluating competing arguments and explaining a conclusion with appropriate support. Legal writing, negotiation and advocacy are related skills for presenting a reasoned position.
Moot exercises, case analysis and scholarly discussion are possible educational methods. Any actual programme should specify its assessment methods and available activities; a general description does not confirm participation in a competition, publication or international placement.
Considering a legal study pathway
International organisations, diplomacy, non-governmental organisations, research and legal services are fields related to these interests. Professional practice and particular roles have their own requirements. Request the current curriculum, award details, teaching mode and any supervised practical component. Verify internships, exchanges and professional recognition separately.
Browse INTIAU Courses for other subjects, or use Contact for questions about university services.
The United Nations international-law library brings together historical materials, legal instruments and lectures. It supplies an external research starting point for examining sources and arguments in international law.
Questions about Public International Law
Are law and diplomacy identical routes to settling an international dispute?
Law and diplomacy are related but distinct perspectives on international interaction. Studying the legal framework of a dispute involves examining the relevant materials and arguments rather than assuming that cooperation or a settlement follows automatically.
What does studying human rights and humanitarian law require?
International human rights law and humanitarian law add further fields of study. Their scope, concepts and application require careful reading of the relevant sources and attention to the circumstances of the issue under examination.
Article illustrations
