International law helps organize relations among states and other international actors, even though there is no central world government. This lesson introduces what international law is, where it comes from, and how state sovereignty shapes states’ rights and obligations.
International law is the collection of formal and informal rules that shape the conduct of states and non-state actors. It helps make international relations more predictable by setting expectations for behavior in a system without a central global government.
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What is customary international law?
Rules that develop through long-standing and generally accepted practices of states.
How does state sovereignty relate to treaty obligations?
States use their sovereign authority to accept treaties; once they do, they are expected to respect the obligations they accepted.
What is the focus of international humanitarian law?
Limiting suffering and protecting people during armed conflict.
How does the scope of human rights law differ from that of humanitarian law?
Human rights law applies more broadly than the rules focused on conduct during armed conflict.
What is the difference between the ICJ and the ICC?
The ICJ addresses disputes between states; the ICC prosecutes individuals accused of serious international crimes.
Quiz questions
What is the main purpose of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)?Answer: To establish shared rules on maritime rights, activities, and responsibilities.
Which description best captures the central purpose of the Geneva Conventions?Answer: To protect people affected by armed conflict and limit suffering during war.
Which matter falls within the International Court of Justice's central role?Answer: A legal dispute between two states.
Who may be prosecuted by the International Criminal Court for serious international crimes?Answer: Individuals accused of crimes within the court's jurisdiction.
What makes enforcement of international law difficult?Answer: There is no central global executive that routinely enforces every decision.
Based on Introduction to Political Science by Mark Carl Rom, Masaki Hidaka, Rachel Bzostek Walker (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.