Public International Law

This edition is a significant revision of the 2001 text and is a systematic introduction to the international legal system.

A comprehensive survey of public international law, a complex and increasingly important area of the law. This book describes and contextualizes the fundamental elements of the international legal system and systematically reviews its most important substantive topics. Issues of particular relevance to Canada and Canadian law are highlighted.

Provides an accessible, balanced, and nuanced introduction to public international law, with examples of how the law applies in practice.

The second edition of this concise and well-loved textbook has been enhanced and developed while continuing to offer a fresh and accessible approach to international law, providing students with a uniquely holistic understanding of the field. Starting with the legal principles that underpin each strand of international law, and putting this into a real-life context, this textbook builds an understanding of how the international legal system operates and where it is heading. It guides readers through the theoretical foundations and development of international law norms, while also explaining clearly how the law works in practice.

This work is primarily aimed at the law student, although it may also be of relevance to those studying international relations. It covers the main topics of public international law and is designed to serve both as a textbook and as a case and materials book.

A history of international law in public debates and its resulting popular language of international law.