Introduction
Public international law is a set of rules and principles that govern the relations between states and other international actors. It encompasses treaties, conventions, and customary practices that shape interactions on the global stage.
Key Principles
- Sovereignty
- Consent
- Non-interference
- Responsibility
Examples
One notable example of public international law in action is the Paris Agreement, which aims to combat climate change through collective action. Another example is the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which sets out the rights and responsibilities of states in maritime zones.
Case Studies
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is a key institution for the adjudication of disputes between states based on international law. The Nicaragua v. United States case highlighted the importance of state responsibility and non-interference in international relations.
Statistics
According to the United Nations, there are over 560 multilateral treaties in force, covering a wide range of topics from human rights to environmental protection. These agreements play a crucial role in shaping the global legal framework.