INTNLREL 140B:
Navigating New Frontiers in International Law
In this seminar, students will delve into the interplay between international law and international relations, with a focus on understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies, particularly AI. Through examining legal and political theories and case studies, students will gain insights into the role of international law in shaping state behavior, global governance, and cooperation. Key topics include treaty-making processes, soft law, customary international law, state sovereignty, and the impact of new frontiers in international law, such as AI regulation. As AI technologies advance, they pose novel legal, ethical, and practical questions transcending national borders. This class will investigate AI's implications on human rights, privacy, and international security, exploring issues like autonomous weapons, surveillance, and AI-driven decision-making. The course will address central questions such as: How does the intersection of international law and relations shape global challenges? What principles and sources of international law influence state behavior and cooperation? How do emerging technologies, particularly AI, challenge existing legal frameworks? What is the current landscape of AI regulation, and what are the prospects for global governance? This seminar aims to equip students with the analytical and critical thinking skills necessary to engage in shaping the future of international law in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. The course is suitable for advanced undergraduates. Prior coursework in international law or international relations is recommended but not required.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 5