International law: A discipline of transition

Professor Alberto Costi explains his view of international law with examples drawn from the law of armed conflict, human rights, and environmental law.

Inaugural lecture—Professor Alberto Costi

May 2019

Professor Alberto Costi explains his view of international law as a problem-solving, dynamic, and aspirational discipline in constant transition, with examples drawn from the law of armed conflict, human rights, and environmental law.

As the world evolves, so does the international legal order. From shared values to common language and legal norms, international law has metamorphosed from a set of rules governing relations between monarchs first, and then states, into a body of law regulating a growing community of legal subjects with various rights and obligations.

Professor Alberto Costi explains his view of international law as a problem-solving, dynamic, and aspirational discipline in constant transition, with examples drawn from the law of armed conflict, human rights, and environmental law. Looking ahead, Professor Costi reflects on the future of international law in a multifaceted world.

This is Professor Costi’s inaugural lecture as Professor of Law at Victoria University of Wellington.

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