Course Overview

The International Course “Ukraine and Palestine in the Crosshairs: International Law Between War and Peace” is a 25-hour intensive program designed to offer a comprehensive understanding of key branches of Public International Law, specifically focusing on Use of Force, International Humanitarian Law, and International Criminal Law.

The course will run from September 15th to September 19th, 2025 and aims to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills for analyzing the complex legal issues surrounding armed conflicts, with particular emphasis on the ongoing crises in Ukraine and Palestine.

Coordinated by Dr. Olena Nihreieva, an experienced Associate Professor, the course will feature a team of legal scholars and practitioners who will guide students through the intricate legal frameworks governing these international conflicts.

Course Objectives

Upon completing the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the core rules and doctrines of Public International Law relating to Use of Force, International Humanitarian Law, and International Criminal Law.
• Apply theoretical concepts through practical case studies, analyzing current conflicts such as those in Ukraine and Palestine.
• Gain the ability to assess and critically evaluate the legality of actions taken during armed conflicts, including the application of international legal principles in real-world situations.
• Deepen their understanding of international responsibility and the mechanisms of legal accountability in the context of ongoing conflicts.
• Enhance their Legal English proficiency, particularly in international law terminology and legal argumentation.

Who Should Attend?

This course is aimed at:

• Students of law faculties at all academic levels seeking a deeper understanding of international law and its application in contemporary conflicts.
• Academics and legal professionals working in international law, human rights, conflict resolution, or international relations.
• Students and professionals from other fields where knowledge of international law is relevant to their work or research, such as political science, international relations, or humanitarian aid.

Instructors and Expertise (for more details)

The course will be taught by a distinguished group of instructors:

• Dr. Olena Nihreieva (Course Coordinator), Associate Professor and Lecturer
• Dr. Michel Remi Njiki, Senior Lecturer
• Dr. Lorena Calvo Mariscal, Lecturer
• Ms. Cristina Castilla Cid, Lecturer
• Mr. Enrique del Álamo Marchena, Researcher
• Ms. María de los Ángeles Bellido Lora, Researcher

Each instructor brings significant academic and practical experience in international law and has expertise in analyzing conflicts from a legal perspective. Their diverse backgrounds will provide students with a well-rounded, interdisciplinary understanding of international legal principles.

Course Structure

The program is structured to provide a balanced combination of theoretical lectures, practical case studies, and interactive discussions:

September 15 – 19, 2025:

• Theoretical lessons on the rules and doctrines of Use of Force, International Humanitarian Law, and International Criminal Law.
• Case studies focusing on Ukraine, Palestine, and other relevant armed conflicts to contextualize legal principles in real-world situations.
• Group discussions and interactive analysis of the ongoing international situations, encouraging students to apply legal concepts to contemporary issues.
• Legal English workshops, aimed at improving participants’ ability to read, write, and discuss legal topics in English, focusing on international law terminology and legal drafting.

Key Benefits of the Course

• Gain specialized knowledge in Public International Law with a focus on Use of Force, Humanitarian Law, and International Criminal Law.
• Apply theoretical knowledge through case studies of current conflicts, including the situations in Ukraine and Palestine.
• Develop the skills necessary for assessing the legality of international events and understanding their implications in the global context.
• Improve professional Legal English skills, particularly in relation to international legal terminology and academic writing.
• Engage with legal professionals and international law scholars to broaden your understanding and network in the field.

This course offers a unique opportunity for anyone interested in international law, human rights, and global conflict resolution. It is particularly relevant for those seeking to deepen their understanding of contemporary international conflicts and the legal frameworks that govern them.

Course content, assessment and other relevant information

If you want to know more about this course and all the content that will be given click here