Description
The module aims to provide a comprehensive and thorough analysis of the basic rules and principles of international humanitarian law in a contemporary context. Students will get acquainted with the multiple roles and functions of international humanitarian law (IHL), especially under the practice of modern warfare.
Objectives
Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:
•distinguish between the different types of armed conflicts
• identify and analyse the legal issues critical to an armed conflict situation
• understand how the fundamental IHL principles apply in a contemporary armed conflict situation
• identify “checks and balances” between IHL and IHRL regimes
• familiarize themselves with decision-making processes during an armed conflict
• develop their knowledge of IHL under different working environments.
Contents
The course will cover issues regarding the classification of armed conflicts, the automatization of warfare and its implications for the application of IHL. The course will also treat a number of questions arising from the application of the core principles of IHL (distinction, proportionality, necessary precautions, unnecessary suffering) in connection with the military necessity requirement during an armed conflict. Particular emphasis will be given on the interplay between IHL and international human rights law during emergency situations and the relevant case-law of the international and regional judicial bodies. Questions related to compliance with the IHL will also be examined under a practical-oriented approach.
Academic Requirements
Students should have at least a basic knowledge of public international law.
Teaching Method
Teaching will be conducted through interactive, discussion-based seminars. Basic and further reading material will be distributed prior to each class. Students are expected to actively participate in class, either (a) with brief presentations on a subject chosen from a reading list which will be distributed at the beginning of the semester, or (b) with participating in IHL simulation activities based on fictitious conflict scenarios.
Lecturer
The course is taught by Dr. Eleni Micha, Faculty Member of the School of Law.
Assessment and Final Evaluation
Final written exam, open book, essay questions and/or a case analysis – 2 1/2 hours (60%)
Mid-term written exam, open book, essay questions - 2 hours (20%)
Class participation (presentation in class or simulation activities) (20 %)