Advanced Introduction to International Conflict and Security Law: (Elgar Advanced Introductions series)

Elgar Advanced Introductions are stimulating and thoughtful introductions to major fields in the social sciences, business and law, expertly written by the world’s leading scholars. Designed to be accessible yet rigorous, they offer concise and lucid surveys of the substantive and policy issues associated with discrete subject areas. Advanced Introduction to International Conflict and Security Law provides a concise and insightful guide to the key principles of international law governing peacetime security, the use of force, conflict and post-conflict situations. Nigel D. White explores the complex legal regimes that have been created to control the level of armaments, to limit the occasions when governments can use military force to mitigate the conduct of warfare and to build peace. Key Features include: A comprehensive survey of the relevant international law In-depth coverage written in an accessible style, structured into short, focused chapters A combination of law, practice and politics that introduces the reader to the complexities of the law Detailed coverage of international legal regimes not normally gathered together in one place A critical evaluation of the direction, purposes and content of international conflict and security law, with particular reference to arms control, use of force, collective security, armed conflict, post-conflict situations and private security actors Written in a sharp and engaging style this authoritative introduction provides a unique overview of international conflict and security law. It will be an essential resource for students and researchers in international law and international relations.

Table of Contents:
Contents: Preface 1. Basic Conditions of Peace and Security 2. Arms Control Law 3. The Use of Force in International Law 4. The Regulation of Private Violence 5. Collective Security Law 6. The Law of Armed Conflict 7. Post-conflict Law 8. Peace and Justice Index

About the Author :
Nigel D. White, Emeritus Professor of Public International Law, School of Law, University of Nottingham, UK

Review :
‘The international law relating to state violence has developed in a fragmented manner. Nigel White offers an original and coherent analysis that guides us through the complex area of conflict and security. The book lucidly charts the rocky legal terrain, but it does not shy away from the political context, addressing also the legitimacy and effectiveness of the rules. This is an accessible and insightful volume.’ ‘In this brief but rich volume, Nigel White impressively brings together a number of disparate branches of international law to form a coherent whole. The book's main innovation is that it is organised around the question by whom the monopoly of violence is held under international law and how it is to be exercised. White writes in a lucid style, provides many telling examples and does not ignore the politics behind international conflict and security law.’ ‘Professor White’s book is a helpful introduction for students to some of the most important legal controversies of our times. From 19th century self-defense doctrine to cyber war, the book covers the relevant topics in an accessible way, providing a good starting place for further research.’ ‘This is a very welcome publication by Professor Nigel White, an established expert in international conflict and security law. It is an excellent introduction to this area of law. The book is accessible and provides a comprehensive treatment of the subject matter. It represents a distinct contribution by offering a succinct but incisive appraisal of the law and practice in this area and should serve as an excellent source of reference for advanced students, academics and practitioners.’