International Law in Action: the Arbitration of International Disputes

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/arbitration-international-disputes

Introduction

### Course Review: International Law in Action: the Arbitration of International Disputes As our world becomes increasingly interconnected, the need for effective mechanisms to resolve international disputes has never been more essential. The course “International Law in Action: the Arbitration of International Disputes,” offered by Leiden University on Coursera, provides a comprehensive look into the intricacies of international arbitration, serving as the third installment in a series dedicated to exploring international law in practice. #### Course Overview This course meticulously builds on the foundation set in its predecessors, diving into the mechanisms through which international disputes are settled, focusing particularly on arbitration—one of the most prevalent methods of resolution in the international arena. It is designed not just for law students or professionals, but for anyone interested in understanding how international conflicts are managed and resolved. #### Syllabus Breakdown The syllabus is structured to guide learners through a logical progression, beginning with an introduction to the history and general principles of international arbitration. In the first module, students will familiarize themselves with the operational framework of international arbitration, including the important role of the Permanent Court of Arbitration. The subsequent modules delve deeper into specialized areas. 1. **The History and General Principles of International Arbitration**: This segment lays the groundwork by providing historical context and essential principles, allowing participants to develop a robust understanding of international arbitration's evolution and significance. 2. **Arbitration and the Law of the Sea**: This module focuses on the Law of the Sea Convention (UNCLOS), showcasing how arbitration is utilized to resolve maritime disputes. The case study of the Philippines vs. China serves as a focal point, illustrating real-world implications of arbitration in a politically sensitive context. 3. **Investment Arbitration**: Here, learners engage with the unique dynamics of investment treaty arbitration, highlighting the interactions between States and non-State actors. The insights into mechanisms provided by institutions like the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) are particularly valuable for understanding global economic relations. 4. **State Immunity and the Enforcement & Validity of International Arbitral Decision**: The final module encapsulates the complexities surrounding arbitral decisions. The analysis of high-profile cases such as the Yukos Arbitration offers a profound understanding of the challenges in enforcement and the implications of state immunity. #### Learning Experience The course is well-structured and engaging, designed to encourage participant interaction through forums and discussions. The introductory module fosters a community spirit, inviting learners to introduce themselves and share experiences. The content delivery utilizes a blend of video lectures, supplementary readings, and case studies that cater to various learning styles. #### Who Should Take This Course? This course is a must for legal professionals, diplomats, international relations students, and anyone involved with international law or dispute resolution. It is also beneficial for policymakers and business leaders who must navigate the complexities of international arbitration in their operations. #### Recommendations I highly recommend this course for its depth, clarity, and relevance in today’s globalized landscape. Each module offers practical insights that enrich knowledge and understanding of international legal frameworks. The combination of theoretical grounding and practical examples allows learners to appreciate the nuances of arbitration fully. Enrolling in “International Law in Action: the Arbitration of International Disputes” on Coursera promises not only to expand your understanding of international law but also to equip you with the knowledge necessary to engage thoughtfully in discussions about global disputes. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a curious newcomer, you will find valuable content that can be applied to real-world scenarios. In conclusion, if you are seeking an enriching academic experience that will prepare you for the complexities of international dispute resolution, this course is an excellent choice. It stands as a testament to Leiden University’s commitment to delivering high-quality education in international law, making it a valuable investment in your professional development.

Syllabus

Welcome to the course

Welcome ! Before you start we invite you to first go through our introduction module and introduce yourself in the forum to meet your fellow learners. If you encounter any difficulties while studying, please let us know in the forum. For technical difficulties or questions regarding the course certificate, you can always contact the Coursera Learner Center. Good luck & we hope you will enjoy this course.

Have you read all the tips for studying online? Are you ready to delve into the world of dispute settlement through international arbitration? This week, you will learn the history of international arbitration and the general principles of international arbitration. We will also discuss the work of the Permanent Court of Arbitration and its role as administrator of arbitrations.

This week will explore the role of international arbitration in settling disputes between States under the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention (UNCLOS). Why do States choose arbitration to settle their disputes regarding the law of the sea? To answer this question, we will study how arbitration fits into the complex dispute settlement architecture of UNCLOS, and discuss the option given to States parties to choose either arbitration or settlement through adjudication before the International Court of Justice or the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea. We will conclude this week with an analysis of the famous dispute between the Philippines and China in relation to the parties' maritime entitlements in the South China Sea. Through this case, you will learn how arbitration navigates between law and politics.

Do you remember, from the first week, the different types of parties to a dispute? What makes an arbitration 'mixed'? This week, we will focus on investment treaty arbitration, the most notable example of arbitration between States and non-State actors. I will introduce you to the main principles of investment treaty arbitration, and the procedure at the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID).

What happens after an arbitral award has been rendered? Can an award be invalidated? How are arbitral awards enforced? This week, we will see how a ‘valid’ decision can be rendered and what the parties who are dissatisfied with a decision can or cannot do. More specifically, you will learn about the aftermath of the Yukos Arbitration, an investment arbitration that perfectly illustrates the interplay between state immunity and the enforcement of arbitral awards.