This unit introduces students to the fundamental rules and principles of public international law. The focus of the unit is on the sources of law and the basis of the obligation of states in the international legal system. The topics covered include the nature and sources of international law with particular attention to the legal nature of international law norms, exploring the theoretical foundations of international law and using these foundations to assist in examining specific. The unit uses Australia’s engagement with the international legal system as the basis of discussion of the following topics: the law of treaties; jurisdiction; the relationship between international law and municipal law; international legal personality; territorial sovereignty; immunities and non-justiciability; state responsibility; use of force; and peaceful settlement of international disputes.