The Oxford Handbook of the Use of Force in International Law

This handbook offers an in-depth analysis of the prohibition of force in international law, addressing its evolution and recent challenges. The Oxford Handbook of the Use of Force in International Law is essential for scholars and practitioners alike.

This comprehensive handbook provides a thorough analysis of one of the most contentious areas of international law: the prohibition of the use of force. In The Oxford Handbook of the Use of Force in International Law, over seventy contributors, including leading experts, delve into the current state of international law concerning the use of force, examining its evolution and the numerous controversies that have emerged in recent years. The prohibition of force is viewed as a significant achievement of international law, stemming from efforts to outlaw war as a national policy and to create a collective security framework following the World Wars.

The book begins with an extensive introduction that contextualizes the subject by exploring its historical background, recent challenges, and various conceptual approaches. The second section focuses on collective security, specifically analyzing the legal frameworks and practices of the United Nations as well as regional organizations. Subsequent chapters address the nuances of the prohibition of force, including the right to self-defense and related doctrines. Additionally, the handbook examines armed actions taken on behalf of populations, encompassing issues like self-determination, resistance to occupation, and humanitarian interventions.

As the handbook navigates through these complex topics, it also considers the potential revival of traditional justifications for the use of force in light of new security challenges. The culmination of the arguments presented throughout The Oxford Handbook of the Use of Force in International Law offers crucial insights for scholars, students, and legal practitioners engaged in the field of international law and security.