International Law

Question 1

Customary Law

Answer 1

Based on tradition or common practices of many states. They have been long standing so are accepted as fair and right. They aren’t written down. Example: the manner is which prisoners of
war and civilians are treated in war, the law of the sea.

Question 2

Treaties

Answer 2

An international agreement in written form and governed by international law. They can be
bilateral (between 2 nations) or multilateral (between many states). They are used to make specific laws
and to control conduct and cooperation between states. The treaty only becomes binding when a state ratifies it, meaning it confirms that it intends to be bound by the conditions placed on it by the treaty, e.g. the UN, the Treaty of Versailles

Question 3

Declarations

Answer 3

These states a countries position on particular issues. They aren’t legally binding. Eg: the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Question 4

Conventions

Answer 4

Treaties or agreements between states, the term is used interchangeably. Examples: The
Geneva Conventions. Conventions are determined by the UN, made by them. Only apply to those who
sign them.

Question 5

What does IGO stand for

Answer 5

Inter-governmental Organisation

Question 6

Examples of IGOs

Answer 6

-United Nations
- European Union
- World Bank/International Monetary Fund (IMF)
- Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN)

Question 7

What does NGO stand for

Answer 7

Non-government Organisation

Question 8

NGO examples

Answer 8

Greenpeace
- Amnesty
- Red Cross/Crescent
- Caritas
- World Vision
- Doctors Without Borders
- Oxfam