This CLE program provides a structured overview of the international legal regime governing the use of force. It begins with an examination of the core principles of the Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC), including its legal foundations, sources of authority, and circumstances in which it applies.

The course then analyzes the framework established by the United Nations Charter, with particular attention to the general prohibition on the use of force and its recognized exceptions, including self-defense and Security Council authorization, as well as ongoing legal debates surrounding humanitarian intervention.

Using practical examples, participants will assess how these doctrines are applied in real-world scenarios. The program concludes with a discussion of Rules of Engagement and how they operationalize international legal standards into actionable guidance for decision-makers.