730-408 International Humanitarian Law

Students should have completed, or be undertaking International Law.

International law regulates the use of force by determining if and when states have a right to resort to forceful measures, and imposing limitations on the use of armed force if a conflict has commenced. This subject is concerned with the second issue and will cover the following topics:

• the concept and philosophy of international humanitarian law;

• the definition of armed conflict and the relevance of the distinction between international and non-international armed conflict;

• the protection of victims of armed conflict: the wounded, the sick and shipwrecked, and prisoners of war securities regulation;

• the protection of the civilian population, including refugees and displaced persons;

• the role of women in armed conflict;

• restrictions on the means and methods of armed conflict, including restrictions on the types of weapons;

• application of international humanitarian law principles to peace-keeping forces;

• implementation of international humanitarian law: the role of the Red Cross, international organisations, and NGOs;

• enforcement of IHL, including national and international prosecutions for war crimes; and

• development of a permanent mechanism to deal with international crimes: the International Criminal Court.

Reflective essay 1000 words 20% (due mid semester) and research essay 4000 words 80% (due end of semester) OR reflective essay 1000 words 20% (due mid semester) and a final examination two hours 80%.

Printed materials will be issued by the Faculty of Law.