Current Issues of International Law - HP4314

• Title: Current Issues of International Law
• Guaranteed by: Department of Public International Law (22-KMP)
• Faculty: Faculty of Law
• Actual: from 2023
• Semester: both
• Points: 0
• E-Credits: 4
• Examination process: written
• Hours per week, examination: 20/0, Ex [HS]
• 4EU+: no
• Virtual mobility / capacity: no
• State of the course: taught
• Language: English
• Teaching methods: full-time
• Teaching methods: full-time
• Is provided by: HOPV0226
• Note: course can be enrolled in outside the study plan; enabled for web enrollment; you can enroll for the course in winter and in summer semester
• Guarantor: prof. JUDr. PhDr. Veronika Bílková, Ph.D., E.MA.
• Incompatibility : HPOP0000, HPOP3000, HP4313
• Is incompatible with: HP4313

Annotation

Last update: Mgr. Barbora Šicnerová (25.01.2024)

The course consists of lectures by an external expert and focuses on current issues from a certain area of international law. The lectures are carried out in the form of block teaching. Details about the content of the course and about the lecturer will always be specified before the respective semester.

AR 2024 information:
In spring semester 2023, the course will be taught by dr. Ivana Hrdličková, former president of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon and a leading Czech expert in international criminal law.

Course Objective:
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is leaving an indelible mark on international law. This course is crafted to equip the next generation of legal professionals with the tools to navigate this complex intersection. Over the course of 11 comprehensive modules, students will explore the challenges and opportunities that arise when AI intersects with international legal frameworks.

Course Highlights:
• Holistic Understanding: This course provides a thorough exploration of how AI impacts key sectors of international law, such as human rights, economic policies, and governance.
• Emerging Topics: Students will delve into cutting-edge ethical, judicial, and governance issues related to AI in international law.
• Interactive Experience: The curriculum includes interactive discussions, real-world case studies, and a student-led module, all designed to deepen understanding and analytical skills.
• Future-Ready: Upon course completion, students will possess a multidisciplinary skill set increasingly vital to the legal field and beyond.

Course Objective:
The main aim of this course is to impart both the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to navigate the intricate relationship between AI and international law. By the end of the course, students will:
• Analyze and critique relevant legal frameworks for AI in an international context.
• Understand and evaluate the ethical dimensions of AI's application in various legal sectors.
• Propose informed policy recommendations for responsible AI use and regulation.
• Apply critical thinking to real-world case studies related to AI and international law.
• Engage in scholarly discourse on emerging trends, preparing them for future developments in the field.

Requirements to the exam

Last update: Mgr. Barbora Šicnerová (25.01.2024)

1. Minimum 70% attendance at lectures

2. Written essay and the discussion about it

Syllabus

Last update: Mgr. Barbora Šicnerová (25.01.2024)

MODULE 1:  Foundations and Intersections: Introduction to International Law and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Module 1 serves as an introductory yet comprehensive launchpad, equipping students with the foundational knowledge required for the specialized topics in subsequent modules. Key terms and concepts in both AI and international law are introduced.

MODULE 2: AI in International Legal Practice: An Overview

Module 2 offers both a theoretical framework and a practical perspective on how AI is transforming international legal practice. Through critical discussions and analyses, students will explore the far-reaching implications of AI in the legal domain.                     

MODULE 3: Human Rights Concerns in the AI Environment

Module 3 provides a detailed look at the intricate relationship between AI and human rights. Through discussions, case studies, and real-world examples, students will critically evaluate and contribute to this rapidly evolving field.

MODULE 4: AI Ethics and Accountability: International Perspectives

Module 4 focuses on the ethical and legal dimensions that AI navigates within international law. Topics such as algorithmic accountability and challenges associated with AI-driven decision-making will be explored.

MODULE 5: Navigating AI in International Criminal and Humanitarian Law

Module 5 delves into the complexities between AI and international criminal and humanitarian law. Students will critically examine the role of AI in modern warfare, individual criminal responsibility, and ethical implications in conflict zones.

MODULE 6: AI’s Role in International Justice, Accountability

Module 6 explores how artificial intelligence intersects with international justice and accountability. Students will scrutinize the various components of international justice systems and the role AI can play in shaping them.

MODULE 7: Cybersecurity, AI and Disinformation in International Law

Module 7 takes a deep dive into the relationship between AI, cybersecurity, and disinformation within the context of international law. Students will learn about the vulnerabilities, ethical dilemmas, and legal frameworks that govern these emerging areas.

MODULE 8: AI in International Economic Law and Dispute Mechanisms

Module 8 provides a comprehensive look at how AI technologies are impacting international economic law and dispute resolution mechanisms. Ethical dimensions and future prospects will also be discussed.

MODULE 9: Innovation and Sustainability: AI's Impact on International Legal Framework

Module 9 examines the evolving relationship between AI, innovation, and sustainability. Students will be guided through critical legal frameworks that influence AI's contributions to these areas.

MODULE 10:  AI Governance: The Role of International Organizations and Regulations

Module 10 investigates the landscape of global AI governance, emphasizing the role of international organizations and existing regulations. Students will evaluate the effectiveness of various governance mechanisms.

MODULE 11: Future Directions: Student-Led Explorations in AI and International Law

Module 11 serves as the course capstone, enabling students to conduct independent research and present their findings. This module aims to encourage students to apply their accumulated knowledge and to inspire them to contribute to future developments in the field. 

Entry requirements

Last update: Mgr. Miroslav Sojka (25.05.2023)

Pro zapsání předmětu se u studentů magisterského studijního programu doporučuje, aby student/ka měl/a absolvován předmět Mezinárodní právo veřejné II.

Learning resources

Last update: Mgr. Barbora Šicnerová (25.01.2024)

Books on international law and artificial intelligence:

Artificial Intelligence and International Law, Lee Jaemin, Springer Nature Singapore, 2022

AI 2041: Ten Vision fort he Future, Kai-Fu Lee and Chen Quifan, Penguin Random House, 2022

Online resources on international law and artificial intelligence:

United Nations: www.un.org

International Law Commission:  https://legal.un.org/ilc/

UNESCO: www.unesco.org

Council of Europe: www.coe.int

World Health Organization: www.who.int

Permanent Court of Arbitration: www.pca-cpa.org

International Court of Justice: www.icj-cij.org

Peace Palace Library: www.peacepalacelibrary.nl

European Court for Human Rights: www.echr.coe.int

European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights: www.ecchr.eu

OSCE - www.osce.org