International Law
Just Security offers expert analysis of international law and its role in addressing global challenges. Our coverage includes litigation in international and regional tribunals, the process of international law-making, analysis of compliance and accountability for international law violations–including international criminal justice, and challenges to the international legal order.
3,511 Articles
Biden’s Drone Policy Review: Recommendations for a Reset
"The administration should see this review as an opportunity take some first critical steps toward ending the forever wars."
Principles for a 2021 Authorization for Use of Military Force
The Biden administration and new Congress have an opportunity to fundamentally rethink the congressional authorization of military force against terrorist groups. Here are seven…
Highlighting Sri Lanka’s Abuses to the UN in Reviews and Strategic Litigation
The Human Rights Council should build on the documentation and advocacy NGOs have done over the years to encourage accountability for gross violations.
Heeding Victims’ Voices: The Struggle of Tamil Families of the Disappeared in Sri Lanka
Their experience shows that overdue answers--and justice for all victims--requires international action to break the seal that protects the military.
Upcoming Cases Provide Opportunities to Reassess the Application of the Due Process Clause at Guantanamo
Recognizing the Due Process Clause’s application at Guantanamo will help refocus litigation on the question of whether the remaining detainees pose such a significant threat…
Protecting the Information Space in Times of Armed Conflict
What, if any, limits exist concerning digital information operations in armed conflict? Does the humanitarian legal framework adequately capture the protection needs that arise…
Truth, Justice, and the Narrative in International Criminal Law
International courts are inherently expressive: they provide a platform for a multitude of narratives. But recently, some prosecutorial narratives have begun to dominate in International…
Put Yemen’s Civil Society – and Accountability — at the Center of the Push for Peace
Restoring US leadership and values on Yemen requires more than to stop selling bombs to the Saudis. Yemenis need the chance to confront impunity.
Sri Lanka’s Evasion of Accountability Tests the Limits of the International Human Rights System
Twelve years of failed justice must trigger an honest debate on the ability of these mechanisms to prevent violations and deal with historical atrocities.
Legal Questions (and Some Answers) Concerning the U.S. Military Strike in Syria
Unpacking the right of self-defense under international law when it comes to use of force in response to a series of attacks.
National Security Last Week at the United Nations (Feb. 19-26)
Increasing violence against civilians in South Sudan, Somalia; IAEA reaches temporary deal with Iran; human rights experts urge accountability at Guantanamo Bay. This and more…
Biden’s First Strike and the International Law of Self-Defense
The U.S. airstrikes taken on Friday in Syria almost certainly violated international law, for two basic reasons.