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.
3,788 Articles
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…
Power Politics Obstructs Protection of Civilians in — and After — the Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict
Five measures that Azerbaijan and Armenia, along with Russia, Turkey, and the international community must take now to improve conditions.
Georgia v. Russia: Jurisdiction, Chaos and Conflict at the European Court of Human Rights
A troubling decision by the European Court of Human Rights on its power to adjudicate alleged rights violations related to armed conflict.
Why Guantánamo Detainees Should Have Access to COVID Vaccines Part I: Law of Armed Conflict and Good Policy
The laws of war require vaccinating Guantanamo detainees. So do policy imperatives — including the U.S. military's own self-interests.
German Court Major Judgment on Foreign Officials’ Lack of Immunity in War Crimes Trials
A leading scholar explains landmark decision by Germany's highest criminal court.
Unprecedented Threats to Journalists & Civil Society Activists Are Threatening Afghanistan
Who benefits from the killing of journalists, human rights activists, and civil society members in Afghanistan? What purposes could it serve and for whom?