International Peace and Security Law (976M3)
International Peace and Security Law
Module 976M3
Module details for 2026/27.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 7 (Masters)
Module Outline
The course aims to develop an in-depth and critical appreciation of current issues regarding the resort to the use of armed force in international law, and the key principles regarding collective security.
The course will address the fundamental principle prohibiting the threat or use of armed force between states and military intervention by invitation. It will then critically examine the exceptions to the prohibition, including the controversies regarding the invocation of ‘self-defence’, and the types of arguments states resort to in justifying armed force in international relations and how various actors have responded to these.
Module learning outcomes
Demonstrate an understanding of the historical development and current position of the legal framework seeking to restrict the resort to military force
Critically assess both the formal strictures of the legal framework and the instrumental nature of the exceptions to the prohibition contained within it
Critically evaluate the legal issues involved in historical and current conflicts
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Portfolio (2500 words) | Semester 2 Assessment Week 1 Mon 16:00 | 100.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Seminar | 2 hours | 222220000000 |
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 111110000000 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
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