This subject introduces students to the history and principles of the public international legal order. It provides students with an understanding of the foundational concepts of international law, its history and contemporary relevance, sources of international law and the role of some key international institutions such as the United Nations. The subject is grounded in both theory and practice in order to better demonstrate how international law works in dealing with a range of issues such as the creation of states, state responsibility, dispute settlement, self-determination, jurisdiction and immunities, and the use of force under international law. Students will be encouraged to critically evaluate the position and relevance of international law by addressing past and current developments in the field.