International law

• The Geneva Conventions

  • Agreed in 1949, form key part of international humanitarian law.
  • Accepted by most countries, setting rules in war to protect:
  • Prisoners of war
  • Wounded and sick
  • Civilians in war zones
  • For example:
  • Bans biological and chemical weapons.
  • Wounded and surrendering soldiers must be cared for.
  • Civilians must not be attacked.
• International Humanitarian Law

  • Set of rules for protecting civilians during war.
  • Aims:
  • Protect civilians and non-combatants
  • Provide peaceful solutions where rights have been violated
  • Key Principle: National sovereignty – countries control what happens within borders.
  • But: If a government abuses citizens, international law allows outside intervention to protect human rights.
• International Criminal Court (ICC)

  • Set up in 2002, based in The Hague, Netherlands
  • Independent from the United Nations.
  • 123 member countries (but USA, China, Russia are not signed up).
  • Deals with serious crimes: genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity.
  • Acts only when national courts cannot handle a case or a case is referred by the UN or a country.
  • Balances punishment and restorative justice for the guilty.
• International Court of Justice (ICJ)

  • Also in The Hague. Called the "World Court".
  • Aims to settle legal disputes between countries (not individuals or companies).
  • 15 judges elected by UN General Assembly and Security Council (serve 9-year terms).
  • Only states can bring cases (not individuals/groups), which makes it hard for minorities to get justice.
  • UN Security Council members can block ICJ rulings using resolutions.
  • Countries can refuse to accept rulings, as they are sovereign.