PUBLIC INTERNATIONAL LAW
Rapid Revision Sheet
Definitions • conventions • cases • zones
KSLU • The Law of Nations
How to use Skim before the exam. Conventions with years and cases earn marks; memorise the maritime zones and Art 38 sources. |
UNIT I — NATURE, BASIS & SOURCES
Term / Instrument | In one line |
|---|---|
International law | Body of customary & conventional rules binding on States in their mutual relations (Oppenheim). Bentham coined the term; Grotius = father. |
Is it true law? | Austin: no (no sovereign) → 'positive morality'. Better view: yes — weak law, enforced by self-help, UNSC, opinion. |
Sources (Art 38 ICJ) | Treaties; custom (practice + opinio juris); general principles; judicial decisions & jurists (subsidiary). |
Custom | Needs general State practice + opinio juris (North Sea Continental Shelf). |
Monism / Dualism | One system (intl supreme) / two separate systems (needs transformation). |
India | Art 51(c), Art 253; custom incorporated unless contrary to statute (Gramophone Co.). |