The Future of International Law
Global Government

Draws together the theoretical and practical aspects of international cooperation needs and legal responses in critical areas of international concern.

Joel P. Trachtman (Author)

9781107435858, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 8 May 2014

318 pages, 6 b/w illus. 8 tables
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.7 cm, 0.43 kg

'Trachtman's book is an interesting and engaging addition to the literature occupied with understanding how international law will move beyond the consent-only familiar system identified with Westphalia. The greatest strength in Trachtman's approach is his combination of a firm understanding of international law as it presently operates with an engaging analysis firmly rooted in functionalist and economic theory … a worthwhile read for anyone interested in understanding the questions which currently face international law.' Aoife O'Donoghue, Netherlands International Law Review

The world is changing rapidly and there are increasing calls for international and legal responses. Social changes in areas such as globalization, development, demography, democratization and technology are growing in importance for both citizens and states. Over time this will be reflected in international law and organizational structures, which will have more prominence in governmental functions. In this sense the future of international law is global government. This book draws together the theoretical and practical aspects of international cooperation needs and legal responses in critical areas of global concern and predicts that a more extensive, powerful and varied international legal system will be needed to cope with future opportunities and challenges.

1. Introduction: the crisis in international law
2. Reasons for international law and organization
3. International law and organization as a system for transnational political linkage
4. The futurology of international law
5. Cyberspace
6. Human rights
7. Environmental protection and public health
8. Global regulation of finance
9. Economic liberalization: trade, intellectual property, migration, and investment
10. Fragmentation, synergy, coherence, and institutional choice
11. International legal constitutionalization
12. Conclusion: functionalism revisited.

Subject Areas: Public international law [LBB], Jurisprudence & general issues [LA]