Transforming the Politics of International Law: The Advisory Committee of Jurists and the Formation of the World Court in the League of Nations

This volume explores the role of League of Nations committees, particularly the Advisory Committee of Jurists (ACJ), in shaping the statute of the Permanent Court of International Justice (PCIJ). It examines the contributions of individual jurists and unofficial members in shaping the League's international legal machinery and how the political visions of each state influenced the drafting of the Covenant. The book is a significant contribution to the literature on international law and legal history.

Format: Hardback
Length: 276 pages
Publication date: 05 November 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume delves into the critical role played by League of Nations committees, particularly the Advisory Committee of Jurists (ACJ), in shaping the statute of the Permanent Court of International Justice (PCIJ). The authors embark on an insightful exploration of the contributions of individual jurists and unofficial members in molding the League's international legal machinery. Serving as a companion to The League of Nations and the Development of International Law: A New Intellectual History of the Advisory Committee of Jurists (Routledge, 2021), this book offers a profound examination of the intricate dynamics that shaped the development of international law during the early twentieth century.

At the heart of this book lies a fundamental principle: the development of international law was a political endeavor, where the vision and notion of an international society had to navigate the complex political landscapes of the various legal committees within the League of Nations during the drafting of the Covenant. The authors shed light on the inner workings of these committees, revealing how the political role of unofficial members played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of international law. By examining the interactions and negotiations between official and unofficial members, the book underscores the intricate interplay between politics and law in the formation of global legal norms.

One of the key insights of the book is the recognition of the significant influence that unofficial members had on the political and legal processes of the ACJ. These individuals, often experts in international law and legal theory, brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the committee's deliberations. Their contributions went beyond their official positions, as they actively engaged in discussions, proposed amendments, and exerted pressure on their colleagues to adopt certain legal provisions. Their political acumen and ability to navigate complex power dynamics played a crucial role in shaping the final statute of the PCIJ.

The book is a valuable resource for scholars and researchers in the fields of International Law, Legal History, International Relations, Political History, and European History. It provides a detailed account of the role played by League of Nations committees, particularly the ACJ, in shaping the statute of the Permanent Court of International Justice. Through its comprehensive analysis and insightful perspectives, the book offers valuable insights into the complex processes that underpinned the development of international law in the early twentieth century.

In conclusion, this volume is a groundbreaking contribution to the literature on international law and the League of Nations. It sheds light on the critical role played by individual jurists and unofficial members in shaping the international legal landscape. By examining the interplay between politics and law, the book provides a deeper understanding of the historical processes that led to the establishment of the Permanent Court of International Justice and its enduring impact on the development of international law.

Weight: 694g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367897512