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.
3,513 Articles

The ABA Urges Action Against Abusive Commercial Spyware, and Policymakers Should Listen
The leading association of American lawyers added its voice to the chorus of concern surrounding the proliferation of commercial spyware.

The Just Security Podcast: A Syrian War Crimes Verdict in a Dutch Court
A Dutch court recently convicted a man of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the Syrian civil war.

Key Questions in U.S. Cyber Attack on “Iranian Spy Ship”
What was the nature of the operation? How is Iran likely to respond? What are the implications for conflict escalation, or de-escalation?

Here’s What You Need to Know About the Pentagon’s New Civilian Harm Policy
In December 2023, the Department of Defense (DOD) quietly released its Instruction on Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response (CHMR DOD-I), which was mandated by Section 936 of the…

As Senate Considers New Ambassador to Burkina Faso, Human Rights Focus Would Strengthen US Policy
As government forces battle armed groups in Burkina Faso, civilians face daily abuses, even death, amid a range of violations of their security and their property. At least 6,201…

A Guide to Thursday’s Hearing on Trump’s Motion to Dismiss the Manhattan Prosecution
A guide to the hearing where the Manhattan court will take up former President Trump's motion to dismiss District Attorney Alvin Bragg's prosecution for hush money payment in 2016…

Not Reassuring: NSM-20 and the Limits of Law-of-War Assurances in the Transfer of U.S. Arms
Analysis of how Biden's National Security Memorandum (NSM-20) may operate in regulating the transfer of U.S. arms amid concerns of international humanitarian law violations.

How Israel Took the Terrorists’ Bait
To thwart Hamas’s strategy, Israel must commit to protect civilians. And Biden must defend human rights and international law with action.

Dutch Appeals Court, Finding Clear Risk of IHL Violations, Orders Government to Halt Military Deliveries to Israel
A Dutch appeals court has ordered the government to halt delivery of F-35 fighter jet parts to Israel within seven days.

On Civilians’ Return to North Gaza: What International Humanitarian Law Requires
A leading legal scholar analyzes international humanitarian law obligations of Israel to permit Palestinian civilians to return to Northern Gaza.

A Welcome US Course Adjustment – But Now the Western Balkans Needs a Full Policy Recalibration
Recent warnings to Bosnian separatists and other obstructionists are helpful, but deeper changes are needed. The upcoming Biden-Scholz meeting is a chance.

Protected Persons and the ‘Geographic Nexus’ Requirement in the DoD Law of War Manual
A critical assessment of how the Department of Defense Law of War Manual narrowly defines "protected persons" under the Geneva Conventions.