In this seminar, students will examine frontier issues in international law, with a focus on artificial intelligence and technology, human rights and humanitarian law, media freedom, and the rights of women and children. With rapid technological advancements, the international community faces a variety of new challenges in the effort to advance global cooperation and security. Throughout this course, students will draw on a variety of legal and political theories and case studies to explore questions about the future of international law and global governance. The course will offer a snapshot into several major issues facing the development and implementation of international law, exploring academic literature, news sources, emerging international frameworks, and global opinion. Students will address central questions such as: To what extent has the rise of technology led to a need for new solutions in international law and global governance? What are the challenges for improved global cooperation given these frontier issues and a changing global security environment? What are the opportunities for international law in the context of rapidly changing technology? Students should have some previous study in international relations theory. Previous study of international law and institutions will also be beneficial but is not required.
5 units · Letter (ABCD/NP) · GER: WAY-SI
In this seminar, students will examine frontier issues in international law, with a focus on artificial intelligence and technology, human rights and humanitarian law, media freedom, and the rights of women and children. With rapid technological advancements, the international community faces a variety of new challenges in the effort to advance global cooperation and security. Throughout this course, students will draw on a variety of legal and political theories and case studies to explore questions about the future of international law and global governance. The course will offer a snapshot into several major issues facing the development and implementation of international law, exploring academic literature, news sources, emerging international frameworks, and global opinion. Students will address central questions such as: To what extent has the rise of technology led to a need for new solutions in international law and global governance? What are the challenges for improved global cooperation given these frontier issues and a changing global security environment? What are the opportunities for international law in the context of rapidly changing technology? Students should have some previous study in international relations theory. Previous study of international law and institutions will also be beneficial but is not required.
Offered in Spring 2026 at Stanford University.