International Economic Law

The course covers the foundations, sources, and principles of International Economic Law, the structure and operation of the WTO, and key trade agreements such as GATT, GATS, TRIPS, and anti-dumping rules. It also introduces International Investment Law, including the definition of foreign investor and investment, standards of protection, risks in foreign investment, political risk insurance, and dispute settlement through ICSID arbitration. The final part of the course addresses emerging issues, especially the interaction between investment law, human rights, environmental protection, and the right to regulate.

Students are expected to study the weekly material systematically, engage with the required and supplementary readings, and participate actively in the scheduled learning activities. These include self-assessment exercises, forum discussions, case-study analysis, role-play activities, policy scenarios, debate, quizzes, and short presentations.

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to understand the basic structure and contemporary development of International Economic Law, identify its main sources and actors, and explain the operation of the WTO and the core rules of international trade and investment law. They will also be able to analyse legal and policy issues related to foreign investment, dispute settlement, and the intersection of economic law with public concerns such as human rights and environmental protection. More broadly, the course strengthens students’ ability to analyse international issues and formulate clear, concise, and well-supported arguments.