International Law, History and Culture

This course situates international law in its historical time and cultural context in order to view its role in history through a broader lens, across different societies and cultural frameworks. Changing perceptions of the phenomenon of the Leviathan exemplifies the evolution of international law and the witch hunt which originated in Europe and spread to other continents. The notions of territoriality and extraterritoriality are discussed in the context of space in postmodern international law. This book will also present the great impact of colonialism on international law. The role of the international protection of fundamental rights is identified as a key factor, evidenced by the protection of religious, ethnic and sexual orientation and gender identity minorities. Lastly, the establishment of the limits on war and the use of force, as well as the interplay between interdependence and cooperation, are depicted as critical challenges in the evolution of international law.