This subject, therefore, seeks to provide students with an expert understanding grounded in theory and practice of how international law applies to the settlement of disputes, and the integrated means and methods used by the international community in settling such disputes. The subject will focus on peaceful settlement of disputes as opposed to the use of force. It will examine the role of the United Nations (UN) and regional organisations, and international courts and tribunals in a range of contexts. The subject will provide students with an ability to critically evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of particular dispute settlement means and mechanisms, taking into account recent developments.

The objective of these lectures is to enable participants to better understand the problems posed by three key rules which belong to the foundations on which today’s international legal system is based: the prohibition of the threat or use of force, non-intervention in internal affairs and the peaceful settlement of international disputes. These principles will be discussed against the background of political variables by which they were and still are shaped.