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11. Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights: Towards an Advanced International Binding Regulation?

Author:
Takis Vidalis
Publication Date:
07-2025
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
The Goettingen Journal of International Law (GoJIL)
Institution:
The Goettingen Journal of International Law (GoJIL)
Abstract:
With the rapid development of AI applications in the most important areas of economic, political and social life, the regime for the protection of fundamental rights has been significantly affected. This reality gives rise to initiatives for new legislation at international, supranational and national level. At the level of international law in particular, this legislation currently focuses on the formulation of general principles and guidelines. What is lacking is more specific regulation in situations where the introduction of AI causes uncertainty as to the protection of specific rights, particularly where conflicts arise between them. This article attempts to formulate proposals for such a more specific regulation, based on widely acknowledged principles of international law. Given that technological development and its impact on today’s societies know no national limitations, the adoption of this ‘next step’ in international law may well determine the smooth adaptation of AI to the values of democratic societies.
Topic:
Human Rights, International Law, Regulation, and Artificial Intelligence
Political Geography:
Global Focus

12. The Montreux Convention and its Importance for International Peace and Security

Author:
Ioannis Antonopoulos
Publication Date:
01-2025
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
The Goettingen Journal of International Law (GoJIL)
Institution:
The Goettingen Journal of International Law (GoJIL)
Abstract:
Since its conclusion, the Montreux Convention regarding the regime of the Straits (1936) constitutes an important pillar of the international order. This may be proven by many historical events from the 20th century until today: From the application of the Convention in WWII to its recent invocation in the ongoing Ukrainian conflict. The Convention’s significance derives from its subject-matter, the freedom of transit through the Dardanelles/Turkish Straits in regard to the warships and aircraft in time of peace and in time of war. This is a legal analysis of the Montreux Convention under the scope of International Law providing a brief look at the historical background of events that have led to the signature of the Convention, an extensive presentation of the legal framework of its provisions regarding passage of warships and overflight of aircraft, as well as, some thoughts on its importance for the international peace and security.
Topic:
Security, International Law, History, Peace, International Order, and Montreux Convention
Political Geography:
Europe

13. Ocean Rights – Challenges and Prospects

Author:
Jasper Mührel
Publication Date:
07-2025
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
The Goettingen Journal of International Law (GoJIL)
Institution:
The Goettingen Journal of International Law (GoJIL)
Abstract:
The pressing environmental crises of the Anthropocene are inherently connected to ocean health. Yet, the oceans are currently in a critical state. The article explores the idea of giving rights to oceans as one way to enhance their legal protection. It draws on scholarship and practice regarding the existing legal rights of nature, and discusses the challenges and prospects of ocean rights. In doing so, the article raises and addresses three fundamental questions for the recognition of such rights: first, why oceans should hold their own rights in the first place; second, who, i.e. what exact entity or entities, shall hold ocean rights; and finally, how such rights could be implemented and represented and thus be given practical effect.
Topic:
Climate Change, Environment, International Law, Oceans and Seas, Anthropocene, and Rights
Political Geography:
Global Focus

14. Punishing Atrocities and Fair Trials: From Nuremberg to Global Terrorism (Episode 46)

Author:
Jonathan Hafetz
Publication Date:
11-2025
Content Type:
Video
Institution:
Center for Security, Race and Rights (CSRR), Rutgers University School of Law
Abstract:
In this episode, we welcome Professor Jonathan Hafetz for an insightful discussion on the complex legal challenges involved in prosecuting individuals accused of mass crimes. Our conversation traces the development of international justice mechanisms from the foundational Nuremberg trials through to contemporary approaches in the age of global terrorism. Professor Hafetz examines how nations have attempted to hold perpetrators accountable while maintaining commitment to fair trial principles - a tension that continues to define international criminal law. The discussion explores the significant impact of the U.S. War on Terrorism on legal frameworks and its disproportionate effects on Arab and Muslim communities. Throughout the episode, we consider how these legal precedents influence current justice systems and what lessons can be drawn from past successes and failures. This thoughtful analysis offers listeners a clearer understanding of the delicate balance between pursuing accountability for grave crimes and preserving fundamental rights protections, even for those accused of the most serious offenses. This episode provides valuable context for anyone interested in international law, human rights, and the ongoing evolution of justice mechanisms in response to atrocities and terrorism.
Topic:
International Law, Terrorism, Atrocity Prevention, and Nuremberg
Political Geography:
Global Focus

15. Freedom and Personal Autonomy as the Foundation of Private International Law and the Cornerstone of Individual Rights in the AI Era

Author:
Antoni Abat i Ninet
Publication Date:
04-2025
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
Journal of Liberty and International Affairs
Institution:
Institute for Research and European Studies (IRES)
Abstract:
An examination of private international law manuals and relevant legislation demonstrates that the autonomy of the will constitutes a fundamental epistemological principle underpinning the field. However, this freedom is neither absolute nor unbounded. The binding force of pacta sunt servanda, the limitations imposed by public law, the operation of mandatory rules (lois de police), the demands of public policy (ordre public), and the necessity of protecting weaker parties all constrain its exercise. In contemporary private international law, the principle has evolved into a pervasive and dynamic norm, deeply embedded in legal practice while continuously adapting to new challenges. In the emerging era of artificial intelligence, the autonomy of the will must be reaffirmed as a cornerstone of individual rights, ensuring the preservation of personal freedom amidst technological transformations.
Topic:
International Law, European Union, Artificial Intelligence, Autonomy, Freedom, Immanuel Kant, and Individual Rights
Political Geography:
Europe

16. The EU and NATO in pursuit of better deterrence: Baltic Sea sabotage prompts rethink of current practices

Author:
Teemu Tammikko
Publication Date:
02-2025
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
Finnish Institute of International Affairs (FIIA)
Abstract:
Recurring incidents damaging critical undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea underline the need for better ways to deter destabilizing acts, whether intentional or due to negligence. These incidents should be viewed within the wider context of hybrid interference in the region, including the use of the so-called Russian shadow fleet. Responses should form a comprehensive and coherent set of actions targeting both state and non-state actors behind the interference. To improve accountability and attribution regarding damage, affected states should aim to agree on a common operational protocol for pursuing and investigating suspected vessels, and invest more in surveillance and detection capabilities, including emerging disruptive technologies. There is no silver bullet for improving deterrence within existing legal and political frameworks, but several smaller measures could help increase the costs of destabilizing acts. For instance, the EU could use its regulatory power as well as trade and economic tools to penalize those linked to the incidents, including, when appropriate, ship captains and crew, owners, flag states, and relevant port states.
Topic:
Defense Policy, NATO, International Law, European Union, Deterrence, and Hybrid Threats
Political Geography:
Finland and Baltic States

17. BRICS+ and the Global Game of International Law:Navigating Multilateral World Order and Soft PowerStrategies

Author:
Angelo Khumalo
Publication Date:
04-2025
Content Type:
Working Paper
Institution:
The Nkafu Policy Institute
Abstract:
The basic nature of global governance and a feature of realism is that states are always propelledto act according to their interests and try to dominate global politics. International law attempts tomitigate this effect (1) . Technically speaking, there is no set way the law can be enforced beyondthe barriers of countries, so international law regulates universal domains such as human rights,trade, and diplomacy through customs, agreements, contracts, treaties, and institutions like theUnited Nations (UN) and the European Union (EU) (2) .
Topic:
International Law, Multilateralism, Soft Power, and BRICS
Political Geography:
Global Focus

18. Algorithmic North: Weather, Security and International Law

Author:
Amanda H. Lynch and Charles H. Norchi
Publication Date:
11-2025
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP)
Abstract:
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies are reshaping core practices and infrastructure worldwide, but in the Arctic, this transformation is not merely disruptive – it is decisive. The region is at once climatically unstable, geopolitically conested and operationally fragile. Accurate weather, water, and climate (WWC) services form the backbone of safety, mobility, and sovereignty in the High North. As Arctic stakeholders turn increasingly to AI/ML to enhance decision-making support, they are rapidly building dependencies on systems in an institutional vacuum. In a region where the margin for error is slim and the consequences of failure severe, these shifts demand urgent policy attention. At the same time, international law is struggling to keep pace. No treaty regime governs algorithmic decision-making in the Arctic, and the patchwork of relevant norms were not designed for this convergence of technical innovation, commercial incentives, and environmental exigency. This Policy Brief situates the algorithmic transformation of Arctic WWC services within its broader legal and security context. It concludes by outlining three domains for policy intervention: international organisations, international law and international security.
Topic:
Security, International Law, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Weather
Political Geography:
Arctic

19. Israel and Iran: Major Threats to Middle East Stability

Author:
Erwin van Veen
Publication Date:
10-2025
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
Cairo Review of Global Affairs
Institution:
School of Global Affairs and Public Policy, American University in Cairo
Abstract:
For years, Iran has been accused of being the primary source of instability in the Middle East by much of the West, Israel, and a number of Arab states. One point of conflagration is that it maintains a network of armed groups across the region (the “Axis of Resistance”) which it deploys to attack other states in the area, such as Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia. The second is that it continues to develop an increasingly sophisticated ballistic missile arsenal, which was brought to bear against the Kurdish areas of Iraq, Pakistan and Israel earlier this year. Iran is also criticized for supporting the regime of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad (until December 2024). Furthermore, Western and Arab countries believe that Iran has violated article III of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) by enriching uranium beyond the 20% threshold for civilian use. However, perceptions of Tehran as the main agent of regional instability have shifted in the Middle East and beyond during the past 22 months. A growing number of experts and organizations say Israel is committing more and more war crimes in Gaza, including genocide, and launching an unprecedented series of military campaigns.
Topic:
International Law, Armed Conflict, and Regional Stability
Political Geography:
Iran, Middle East, and Israel

20. The Advisory Function of the International Court of Justice: Are States Resorting to Advisory Proceedings as a “Soft” Litigation Strategy?

Author:
Myrto Stavridi
Publication Date:
04-2024
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
Journal of Public and International Affairs (JPIA)
Institution:
School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA), Princeton University
Abstract:
In the last decades, there has been an increase in advisory opinions of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that relate to vital political interests directly affecting the sovereignty of states. Even though advisory opinions are not binding and do not require the consent of the states involved, advisory proceedings have been increasingly and strategically used by states and international actors as contentious proceedings in disguise. Exploring the history of the advisory function of the ICJ and its predecessor, this article argues that advisory proceedings constitute a “soft” litigation strategy and a particularly useful tool for small states or non-state entities, as it has the potential to counterbalance the inherent power disparities in the process of international bargaining by adding the authoritative voice of the ICJ to the debate. This paper connects this development to a modern tendency of states to judicialize international affairs.
Topic:
International Law, Sovereignty, International Affairs, International Court of Justice (ICJ), and Advisory Opinions
Political Geography:
Global Focus