Course 2016-2017 a.y.

Course Objectives

The course covers the basic features of international law that govern the relationships between the subjects of the international community. The course includes a general part and a part (in Italian) covering the relationship between International Law and the Italian legal system in the light of the case law of the Constitutional Court. An introduction to private international law (conflict of laws) is also provided.

Course Content Summary

• The nature of international law and the international system.
• Basic principles of the international legal system.
• The Subjects of International Law: States and other entities.
• Sources of International Law.
• International Organizations. The UN system.
• International peace and security.
• Armed conflicts, the use of force and terrorism.
• The role and importance of human rights.
• The relationship between international and national law with special attention to the relationship of international law and the Italian legal system.
• Breaches of international law and the international responsibility of States.
• Dispute settlement: arbitration and international Courts.
• International criminal justice.
• Introduction to private international law: international contracts.

Detailed Description of Assessment Methods

Written partial and final exams.

Textbooks

• M. DIXON, International Law, Oxford University Press, 2013.
• Text of basic treaties and international instruments, cases.