The Genocide Convention and The Lesson of Nicaragua

International law is an institution whose existence has been posited by philosophers and statesmen for many centuries. For those, however, who mark the rise and fall of legal and political systems by the extent to which they can secure obedience to their commands, 1985 may be remembered as the year in which international law finally became law.

Two things may happen to bring this about. In the case of Nicaragua v. United States the World Court may become a real court. And by ratifying the Genocide Convention, whose interpretation and application are committed irrevocably to the World Court, the United States may ensure that the Nicaragua case will begin a new period in the expansion of the Court’s authority and power.

GR

About the Author

Grover Rees III

Featured Tags

International law is an institution whose existence has been posited by philosophers and statesmen for many centuries. For those, however, who mark the rise and fall of legal and political systems by the extent to which they can secure obedience to their commands, 1985 may be remembered as the year in which international law finally became law.

Two things may happen to bring this about. In the case of Nicaragua v. United States the World Court may become a real court. And by ratifying the Genocide Convention, whose interpretation and application are committed irrevocably to the World Court, the United States may ensure that the Nicaragua case will begin a new period in the expansion of the Court’s authority and power.