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
A Catalogue of Suffering Behind the Calls for Action on Sri Lanka’s War Crimes
Mapping a quarter century of war shows the patterns of violations that demand meaningful and credible truth and accountability processes.
The Human Rights Council Must Establish an Accountability Mechanism for Sri Lanka’s Victims
The record is abundantly clear that the country’s domestic mechanisms lack effectiveness and credibility. This is a gap that the UN uniquely can fill.
Time to Reconsider the 14th Amendment for Trump’s Role in the Insurrection
Impeachment and conviction isn't the only way to keep Trump out of the game, writes Jim Wagstaffe. Congress should pitch 14th Amendment disqualification, too.
Avoiding Collateral Damage on the Battlefield
What are the rules on avoiding harm to civilians in armed conflict and how are they applied in an operational context? A detailed explainer on the processes, technologies, and…
Balancing the US Approach to the ICC
As the Biden administration develops a new direction in American foreign policy, the ICC is also charting a new institutional course.
US Re-Engagement in UN Human Rights Council Brings Influence, Leverage, Amb. Donahoe Says
On Sri Lanka and other issues, the Biden administration's decision sends the message that the protection of human rights is a deeply rooted priority.
Int’l Criminal Court’s Positive Step on Investigation of Crimes Committed in Palestine
On Friday, in a 2-1decision, the International Criminal Court (ICC) affirmed that the Chief Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda has the jurisdiction investigate crimes in Palestine, including…
The Meaning of the Supreme Court’s Ruling in Germany v. Philipp
Last week the U.S. Supreme Court decided Germany v. Philipp, a Holocaust expropriation case brought under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA). Writing for a unanimous Court,…
Why Guantánamo Detainees Should Have Access to COVID Vaccines Part II: Federal Law and DoD Policies
In addition to a violation of the law of armed conflict and unsound policy, there's another reason the DOD's decision to suspend vaccination plans for Guantánamo detainees is…
Sri Lanka’s UN Efforts to Stave Off Justice for War Crimes
The Rajapaksa government has gone so far as to install someone allegedly associated with a death squad on the Human Rights Council.
Why We Haven’t Made Progress on Civilian Protection
Three reasons for the lack of progress on reducing civilian casualties: We don’t learn, we don’t lead, and we don’t help our partners—or hold them to a high enough standard.
The Progress Not Made on Protecting Civilians
I was recently asked to reflect on the progress the United States has made on civilian protection after two decades of war and counterterrorism operations since 9/11. I got down…