The Danish Institute for International Studies (DIIS) and the Center for International Law and Justice at University of Copenhagen have the pleasure to invite you to a seminar on:
Iran, Israel and International Law – Who Has the Right to Self-defence? Friday, 15 June 2012, 14.15-16.00
University of Copenhagen Lecture hall “Anneks B”, Studiegården, Studiestræde 6, 1455 Copenhagen K
Background An international lawyer once remarked that international law is no suicide pact – it provides states with an inherent right to self-defence. In the relationship between Israel and Iran the exercise of this right to self defence is increasing at the center of the debate: Could Israel, in accordance with international law, launch an attack on Iran to thwart alleged efforts to build nuclear weapons? Or would this be a violation of the UN Charter? Conversely, can Iran make a case of self-defence to respond to the cyber attack its nuclear power plants have been exposed to? Does the computer worm “Stuxnet” give rise to claims of self-defence? And where has the Obama administration positioned itself on these matters? How much space is there for international law in this situation? These and related questions will be discussed during the seminar. There will be two brief presentations and ample time for questions from the audience and discussion. This seminar is part of a seminar series focusing on the role of international law and politics in the Arab Spring. The next seminar will take place after the summer. Speakers Anders Henriksen, Associate Professor, University of Copenhagen Martin Mennecke, Assistant Professor, University of Copenhagen Practical Information The seminar will be held in English. Participation is free of charge, but registration is required. Please use this link for registration no later than Thursday, 14 June 2012 at 12.00. |