Faculty: Graduate Studies Programs Institute

This specialization provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of international and comparative law, focusing on the study of legal systems across different jurisdictions and the rules governing international relations. Students will explore key topics such as international human rights, trade law, criminal law, and comparative legal traditions. The specialization emphasizes integrating theoretical knowledge and practical skills to prepare students for careers in international organizations, diplomacy, legal practice, and academia.

Learning Objectives:

• Understanding the core principles of international and comparative law and their role in global governance.
• Developing skills in analyzing and comparing legal systems and traditions across various jurisdictions.
• Learning techniques for interpreting and applying international legal tools and treaties.
• Exploring principles of international human rights, trade law, and criminal law.
• Understanding the impact of globalization and international relations on legal systems.
• Analyzing challenges and opportunities in the field of international and comparative law.
• Developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills to tackle global legal challenges.

Main Outline:

1. Introduction to International and Comparative Law
   • An overview of international and comparative law, its history, and significance in global governance.
2. Comparative Legal Systems
   • Studying different legal traditions, including common law, civil law, Islamic law, and customary law.
   • Techniques for comparing and analyzing legal systems and their development.
3. International Human Rights Law
   • The basics of international human rights law, including key treaties and agreements.
   • Techniques for protecting and promoting human rights internationally.
4. International Trade Law
   • Principles of international trade law, including the World Trade Organization and regional trade agreements.
   • Techniques for resolving trade disputes and understanding trade regulations.
5. International Criminal Law
   • An overview of international criminal law, including the International Criminal Court and war crimes tribunals.
   • Techniques for prosecuting and adjudicating international crimes.
6. Public International Law
   • Studying principles governing relations between states, including sovereignty, jurisdiction, and diplomatic immunity.
   • Techniques for interpreting and applying international legal standards.
7. Private International Law
   • The basics of private international law, including conflict of laws and cross-border legal disputes.
   • Techniques for resolving disputes involving private parties from different jurisdictions.
8. Emerging Trends in International and Comparative Law
   • The impact of emerging trends, such as globalization, digitization, and climate change, on international and comparative law.
   • Techniques for addressing contemporary legal challenges through innovative approaches.

Assessment Methods:

• Case studies and legal research projects to assess practical skills.
• Writing assignments and research papers to evaluate knowledge of international and comparative legal principles.
• Presentations and reports on legal analysis and case law.
• Participation in moot court competitions and legal simulations.

Recommended Textbooks:

• "International Law" by Malcolm N. Shaw.
• "Comparative Law: A Very Short Introduction" by Sabrina Ragone and Guido Smorto.
• "Principles of International Law" by Sean D. Murphy.

Prerequisites:

Basic knowledge of law and legal principles is recommended. This specialization is suitable for students in law, international relations, and related fields.

Duration of Specialization:

This specialization typically lasts four academic years, with a combination of lectures, case studies, and practical exercises.

Certification:

Upon successful completion of the program, students may obtain a degree in international and comparative law, depending on the program and institution.

Target Audience:

This specialization is designed for undergraduate and graduate students in law and international relations, as well as professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in international and comparative law. The specialization prepares students and professionals to excel in the field of international and comparative law, leveraging theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and an understanding of emerging trends to address global legal challenges and contribute to the development of international legal standards.