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.
3,736 Articles
Has the U.S. Actually Withdrawn from the World Health Organization?
The U.S. effort to withdraw from the WHO presents unique issues of international law—and offers a rare opportunity for an international organization to push back on U.S. exit.
The UN Cybercrime Convention – A Way to Bring Russia to (the International Court of) Justice?
The new U.N. Cybercrime Convention may create new avenues to hold Russia - and all states parties - accountable at the International Court of Justice.
The Law of Naval Warfare and the U.S. Capture of Neutral Merchant Vessels: The Case of the Marinera
In‑depth legal examination of the U.S. capture of the Russian‑flagged tanker Marinera and its implications under the law of naval warfare.
Pursuing Truth, Not Peace: International Courts’ Limited Ability to Help End Wars
International courts rarely end wars, but when designed humbly, creatively, and fairly, they can help parties choose law over war—turning justice into a path toward peace.
Is President Maduro a Prisoner of War?
Three theories by which POW status might attach to a person in Maduro’s position, and the consequences of entitlement to that status.
The Road to a New Convention on Crimes Against Humanity
A new treaty on crimes against humanity will require extensive dialogue and ongoing efforts to engage delegations about the substantive issues.
Responding to the Trump Administration’s Cuts to International Judicial Work
Foreign aid cuts have halted most international judicial training. What future paths remain for U.S. judges seeking global engagement?
Proving Genocide: The Burden of Proof
The Gambia has not shifted the burden of proof in the Gambia v. Myanmar ICJ case; rather, Myanmar faces a tactical choice in its response.
Expert Q&A on the Charter of the Board of Peace and the Role of Congress
Can the United States join the Board of Peace without action by Congress? Can it provide funds or carry out its operations without congressional approval?
The Insurmountable Legal Obstacles to U.S. Acquisition of Greenland
Any acquisition of Greenland by the United States–whether by force or through coerced agreement–would directly violate fundamental principles of international law.
Hypothetical Legal Review of Use of the U.S. Military in Greenland
This hypothetical legal review imagines what a senior judge advocate’s legal analysis would be if ordered to plan a U.S. military operation in Greenland without Denmark's consent.
Judging War: The Legitimacy of International Courts in Armed Conflicts
This article examines how the ICJ and ICC navigate legitimacy challenges in armed conflicts, testing their authority, fairness, and impact on global peace and justice.