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.
3,769 Articles
Iraq’s Legal Responsibility for Militia Attacks on U.S. Forces: Paths Forward
"While Iran has significant control over the militias, Iraq also bears legal responsibility for illegal militia attacks against the coalition. This is because the militias, despite…
“Red Lines” in Beirut Blast Investigation: How Exactly Lebanese Politicians Escape Accountability
The effort to investigate and hold accountable those responsible for last summer's deadly explosion in Beirut reveals the convoluted system of impunity constructed by the Lebanese…
Germany’s Positions on International Law in Cyberspace Part I
Germany issues major statement on cyberspace and international law, analyzed here by leading expert Professor Michael Schmitt.
Decolonizing the ICC: The Situation in Palestine and Beyond
On Feb. 5, the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber ruled that the ICC has jurisdiction over the Palestine situation. Here's why the apparently narrow and formalistic ruling offers hope for decolonizing…
Knowns and Unknowns of US Syria Strike: Looming Int’l and Domestic Law Issues
Key legal questions that remain unanswered about the legality of the Syria strike under domestic and international law.
National Security This Week at the United Nations (Feb 26-March 5)
Myanmar coup may be on Security Council agenda; ICC opens investigation on Palestine; COVAX delivers vaccine in Africa; and more in the weekly roundup.
UN Should Suspend Sri Lanka from Peacekeeping Over Human Rights Abuses
The government has failed in its international obligations to investigate and prosecute crimes, and has promoted alleged war criminals to high levels.
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 authorization of military force against terrorist groups. Here are seven principles for what…
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…