National Security Law

Catalog description

Examines international and U.S. law relevant to the handling of national security matters. Studies the allocation of power under the Constitution between Congress and the President with respect to war powers and assess the role of the courts as a check on the political branches in this area, particularly as it relates to ongoing efforts to fight terrorism. Analyzes the military detention of suspected terrorists and their trial by military commissions. Focuses on international law governing the use of force, conflict management and collective security arrangements. Special attention will be given to the U.N. Charter, the doctrine of self-defense, arguments setting forth justifications for the unilateral use of force, intervention in internal conflicts, and the institutional framework for collective efforts to maintain international peace and security, including peacekeeping operations and peace enforcement actions.