Law Basics
What is domestic law?
Laws that govern people and activities within a country.
Who was Hugo Grotius?
A Dutch lawyer whose writings helped shape modern international law.
What is a treaty?
A formal agreement between countries establishing rules and responsibilities.
In what year was the United Nations created?
1945, after World War II.
What is an economic sanction?
A trade or financial restriction used to pressure a country to change its actions.
What is international law?
Rules, customs, and agreements governing relationships between countries.
What organization was created after World War I to help prevent future wars?
To resThe League of Nations.
What is a bilateral treaty?
A treaty between two countries.
How many member countries belong to the United Nations?
193 member countries.
What does it mean to recall an ambassador?
To bring a country's diplomatic representative home, often to show disapproval.
What is one major difference between domestic law and international law?
Domestic law is enforced through a country's own legal system, while international law often relies on cooperation between countries.
What was one important goal of the Congress of Vienna in 1814–1815?
To restore peace and stability in Europe after the Napoleonic Wars.
What is customary international law?
Rules that develop from established practices that countries follow because they believe they are legally required to.
How many permanent and non-permanent members are on the Security Council?
Five permanent members and ten non-permanent members.
Which international court resolves legal disputes between countries?
The International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Why is international law more difficult to enforce than domestic law?
There is no single world government, court with universal authority, or global police force.
What was the main purpose of the first Geneva Convention in 1864?
To protect and provide humane treatment for wounded soldiers and those caring for them during war.
What does ratification mean in international law?
When a country formally agrees to be legally bound by a treaty.
What is veto power, and who can use it?
The power to block a substantive Security Council resolution; only the five permanent members can use it.
What is the difference between the ICJ and ICC?
The ICJ resolves legal disputes between countries. The ICC prosecutes individuals accused of serious international crimes when it has jurisdiction.