DDRO 25A99 - International Law and Empire

The aim of this course is to study some of the foundational doctrines of contemporary international law, while also equipping oneself with the tools to critique and question these foundational doctrines. While expounding upon some of the foundational doctrines and facets of international law such as (1) Sources (2) Sovereignty (3) Law of Treaties (4) State Succession (5) Jurisdiction (6) International Organisations (7) Use of Force (8) International Humanitarian Law and (9) International Criminal Law, this course also critically examines the complex and reciprocal relationship between international law and empire. It explores how empire was instrumental in the making of international law, shaping its foundational doctrines, institutions, and practices. Conversely, it also interrogates how international law itself became a powerful tool in the making and maintenance of empire, facilitating processes of domination, extraction, and governance across the globe. Drawing on critical perspectives, the course challenges students to question conventional narratives and dominant frameworks. Students will analyse the extent to which international law continues to serve imperial interests and consider the question : Is international law, by itself, now an empire?

Objectives :

● Provide students with a solid introduction to the foundational doctrines of international law.

● Introduce students to the history, operation and use of various legal instruments that are crucial to the modern international legal order.

● Provide students with the tools to critique and question these foundational doctrines to widen their disciplinary imagination and proficiency.

None

Seminar

● 2 Group Presentations, in groups of 4, with the first presentation engaging critically with the assigned readings (30%) and the second presentation being a critical engagement with relevant topics from the news cycle (20%)