Completing Humanity: The International Law of Decolonization, 1960–82

The book "Completing Humanity" by Umut Özsu chronicles the history of the struggle to transform international law during the twentieth century's last major wave of decolonization, examining the work of elite international lawyers from newly independent states and international law specialists from First World and socialist states.

Format: Hardback
Length: 348 pages
Publication date: 21 December 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

After the Second World War, the dissolution of European empires and the emergence of new states in Asia, Africa, Oceania, and elsewhere necessitated significant structural changes in the international legal order. In his book, Completing Humanity, Umut Özsu chronicles the history of the struggle to transform international law during the twentieth century's last major wave of decolonization. The book begins in 1960, with the General Assembly's landmark decolonization resolution, and concludes in 1982, with the close of the third UN Conference on the Law of the Sea and the onset of the Latin American debt crisis. Throughout this period, Özsu examines the work of elite international lawyers from newly independent states alongside that of international law specialists from First World and socialist states. A study of modifications to legal theory and doctrine over time, the book documents and reassesses post-1945 decolonization from the perspective of the Third World and the jurists who elaborated and defended its interests.

Introduction:
The aftermath of the Second World War saw a significant reshaping of the global political landscape. The dissolution of European empires and the emergence of new states in Asia, Africa, Oceania, and other regions necessitated a profound transformation in the international legal order. This period marked a crucial juncture in the history of international law, as it sought to adapt to the changing geopolitical realities and address the needs and aspirations of newly independent states.

The Struggle for Decolonization:
The process of decolonization, which began in the late 19th century, was marked by a long and arduous struggle for independence and self-determination. Many colonies were subjected to colonialism and exploitation for centuries, and their inhabitants sought to break free from the control of foreign powers. The struggle for decolonization was characterized by political, economic, and social challenges, as well as resistance from colonial powers.

The Role of International Law:
As the decolonization process gained momentum, international law played a crucial role in facilitating and shaping the transition from colonialism to independence. International law provided a framework for the recognition of colonial states' rights and the protection of the rights and interests of colonized peoples. It also established the principles of self-determination, territorial integrity, and non-interference in internal affairs.

The Emergence of New States:
With the end of World War II, a wave of decolonization swept across the globe. New states were born in Asia, Africa, and Oceania, and they sought to establish their sovereignty and define their legal identities. The emergence of new states presented both challenges and opportunities for international law. On the one hand, it required the creation of new legal frameworks and institutions to accommodate the needs and aspirations of these new states. On the other hand, it also created opportunities for international cooperation and collaboration.

The Work of Elite International Lawyers:
The struggle for decolonization was largely driven by the work of elite international lawyers. These lawyers played a critical role in shaping the legal framework for new states and advocating for their rights and interests. They worked tirelessly to draft and negotiate treaties, agreements, and conventions that would establish the legal basis for new states' independence and sovereignty.

The Role of International Law Specialists:
In addition to elite international lawyers, international law specialists from First World and socialist states also played a significant role in the struggle for decolonization. These specialists brought their expertise and experience to bear on the legal issues that emerged during the decolonization process. They provided advice and guidance to new states on their legal frameworks and helped to negotiate and draft treaties and agreements.

Conclusion:
The struggle for decolonization was a defining moment in the history of international law. It marked the end of colonialism and the emergence of new states in a rapidly changing world. International law played a crucial role in facilitating and shaping this transition, providing a framework for the recognition of colonial states' rights and the protection of the rights and interests of colonized peoples. The work of elite international lawyers and international law specialists was instrumental in this process, and their contributions continue to be felt today.

Weight: 656g
Dimension: 159 x 237 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108427692