Latin Phrases

Question 1

Opinio Iuris

Answer 1

The belief that that practice is legally obligatory.

Question 2

Lacuna in written law

Answer 2

Gap in written law

Question 3

Lex posterior derogat legi priori

Answer 3

More recent legal norms take precedence over older provision (if they are on the same hierarchical level)

Question 4

Lex speciali derogat legi generali

Answer 4

Law governing a spexial subject overrides a law of general matters (when two laws govern the same situation)

Question 5

Ius cogens

Answer 5

Mandatory provision of international law

Question 6

Ius sanguinis

Answer 6

by descent (see: Swiss citizenship)

Question 7

Primus inter pares

Answer 7

First among equals (in federal council)

Question 8

Pacta sunt servanda

Answer 8

Treaties must be performed in good faith

Question 9

Ius soli

Answer 9

Child becomes a citizen of the country where it is born.

Question 10

Ius ad bellum

Answer 10

Prohibits resort to force as a means of settling inter-state disputes. (Art. 2 para 4 UN Charter)

Question 11

Ius in bello

Answer 11

Places restrictions on the conduct of war with a view to limiting suffering and destruction once an armed conflict breaks out.