Keith Mack
International law is the study of law in a global context, focusing on interstate agreements, guidelines, and frameworks in areas such as human rights law, diplomacy, economic relations, and war. It is a challenging but rewarding field that offers the possibility of well-paid legal, political, charitable, and governmental careers. With a degree in international law, you can find work as a lawyer, diplomat, mediator, or politician, among other roles. International law degrees are offered at the bachelor's, master's, postgraduate, and PhD levels, and provide a strong foundation for various career paths, including specializations in public or private international law.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| International law degree type | Bachelor's,Master's, Postgraduate certificate, Postgraduate diploma, PhD |
| International law specialisations | Human rights law, International finance law, International criminal law, International economic law, International energy law, Climate change law |
| Career options | Diplomat, Mediator, Politician, Legal, Business, Charity, Government, Research |
| Salary | Lawyers in the USA earn a median wage of USD 136,000 a year, experienced international lawyers can expect to earn more |
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What You'll Learn
Work internationally
An international law degree is a great way to kickstart a well-paid career with plenty of opportunities for working internationally. The field is very competitive, so it is important to gain initial professional experience after graduating with a Bachelor's of Law (LL.B.) degree. One way to do this is through internships and placements, which can improve your employment chances, provide invaluable job experience, and allow you to network with industry experts. For example, Harvard Law School offers its students the opportunity to work abroad in the summer or sign up for a joint degree programme with the University of Cambridge.
International law degrees are often sought by those interested in legal, political, charitable, or governmental careers. Employers in these sectors include government agencies, international agencies (such as the World Trade Organization), tribunals, intergovernmental organizations, nongovernmental organizations, and private law firms. International lawyers often specialize in either public international law (human rights legislation and international agreements between states) or private international law (cross-border transactions, contracts, and dispute resolution between corporations and individuals).
International law degrees can also be useful for those interested in working in sectors such as accountancy, banking, business and management, commerce, finance, HR and recruitment, journalism, media, publishing, teaching, the civil service, not-for-profit and NGOs, or think tanks and policy development. For example, as a company secretary, you would ensure that your company complies with relevant legislation on a local, national, or global basis. This role requires a thorough understanding of the laws that affect the company's area of interest and the ability to monitor changes in relevant legislation to ensure the efficient administration of legal and statutory requirements.
In addition to providing a foundation for various careers, studying international law will improve your legal knowledge and comprehension and your understanding of the impact of politics, economics, and current affairs on the global climate. It is important for practitioners to comprehend how the global legal system works in today's increasingly globalized world, where legal problems often span countries and involve regional and international treaties and laws.
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Draft trade agreements
International law is a diverse and exciting field that offers a multitude of career paths. One such path involves drafting trade agreements, which are essential to fostering economic growth and creating opportunities for countries and their citizens.
Trade agreements are pacts between two or more countries that aim to reduce barriers to trade and investment, enhance economic cooperation, and establish rules for commerce. These agreements can be bilateral, involving two countries, or multilateral, involving multiple countries, such as the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreements. The WTO is the primary international body governing trade rules, with 154 members, and its agreements cover a wide range of issues, including goods, services, intellectual property, standards, and investment. WTO agreements are lengthy and complex legal texts that ensure fair and orderly trade among nations.
International lawyers play a crucial role in drafting these trade agreements. They work with governments and international organizations to negotiate, structure, and finalize the terms of these agreements. This involves understanding the economic and political interests of the involved parties and translating them into legal language that upholds the principles of international trade law.
For instance, the United States has several free trade agreements, including the North American Free Trade Agreement and the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement. These agreements are designed to reduce tariffs, promote fair trade practices, and enhance economic cooperation between the signatory countries. International lawyers specializing in trade law would be heavily involved in drafting and negotiating such agreements, ensuring they comply with international trade rules and domestic laws.
Additionally, international lawyers may also be involved in dispute resolution related to trade agreements. When trade disputes arise between countries, lawyers with expertise in international trade law can represent their country or organization in negotiations or legal proceedings. They ensure that the rights and obligations outlined in the trade agreements are respected and help find amicable solutions to trade-related conflicts.
Overall, drafting trade agreements is a complex and challenging aspect of international law. It requires a deep understanding of international legal principles, economic policies, and political dynamics. International lawyers who specialize in this field play a pivotal role in shaping global trade relations and creating opportunities for economic growth and cooperation.
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Work in philanthropy
International law is a highly specialised and interdisciplinary field that deals with the study of law in a global context. It covers a broad area of study, including international corporate law, laws relating to migrants and refugees, climate change, natural resources, and transitional justice.
A degree in international law can lead to a career in philanthropy, where professionals work to promote the well-being of others, especially on a large scale. This can involve working for non-governmental organisations (NGOs) or charities that operate internationally. For example, you could work for an international humanitarian organisation that provides aid and assistance to those affected by natural disasters, armed conflicts, or other humanitarian crises.
International law degrees often include courses in humanitarian law, refugee and immigration law, and human rights law, which provide a solid foundation for a career in this field. For instance, Harvard Law School offers courses in international humanitarian law, refugee and immigration law, and human rights in specific regions such as Latin America and East Asia. These courses can provide valuable knowledge and skills for working in international humanitarian organisations.
In addition to humanitarian work, a career in philanthropy could also involve working for organisations focused on other areas such as education, healthcare, environmental conservation, or social services. International law degrees often cover a range of topics, allowing graduates to work in various sectors. For example, courses in international business transactions, trade law, and intellectual property could be useful for working in international development or social enterprise.
Furthermore, international law degrees often emphasise the importance of cultural understanding and foreign language skills. This aspect of the degree can be particularly useful for working in international philanthropy, where professionals may need to navigate diverse cultural contexts and communicate effectively with colleagues and beneficiaries from different backgrounds.
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Be a legal advisor
Studying international law can lead to a multitude of career paths, including legal advisor roles. International law provides a foundation for understanding global issues and the impact of politics, economics, and current affairs on the international climate. This knowledge is highly valuable for legal advisors, who must provide clients with effective counsel and strategic recommendations.
Legal advisors with expertise in international law are sought after by law firms, international companies, and organisations operating across borders. These entities require advisors who can navigate the intricate web of international agreements, treaties, and legal frameworks. Advisors in this field may specialise in areas such as international business law, international arbitration, maritime law, treaty law, or international criminal law.
To become a legal advisor in international law, individuals typically need advanced qualifications. A Master's degree in international law, European law, comparative law, or a related field is often essential. These degrees provide a solid foundation in legal principles and offer specialisations that prepare graduates to address complex international legal issues. Obtaining a Juris Doctor (JD) or an LL.M. degree from an accredited law school can also enhance one's credentials and competitiveness in the field.
In addition to academic qualifications, legal advisors in international law should possess a set of key skills. These include strong analytical, interpretive, and problem-solving abilities, as well as excellent written and oral communication skills, especially in multiple languages. A deep understanding of different legal systems, such as those of the European Union, French civil law, and international criminal law, is also advantageous.
Legal advisors in international law often work with clients from multiple countries, so cultural competency and an understanding of the social and political dynamics of various nations are crucial. This includes the ability to navigate cultural concerns and communicate effectively with clients in their preferred language. Thus, a legal advisor in this field should be well-versed in international relations and possess strong cross-cultural communication skills.
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Represent your employer in litigation
International employment law is a complex area that requires a deep understanding of the legal frameworks in multiple countries. It involves navigating the laws of individual nations while also adhering to international labour standards, such as those set by the International Labour Organization (ILO). Compliance with these standards is crucial for employers with a global workforce to avoid disputes and maintain positive working relationships with their employees.
Labour laws vary significantly across jurisdictions, and employers must be mindful of these differences to ensure they are acting within legal boundaries. For instance, termination laws differ widely; some countries, like Germany and France, have robust protections against wrongful termination, while at-will employment in the US allows for termination without cause as long as it complies with anti-discrimination laws. Similarly, certain jurisdictions, like the UK, mandate internal grievance policies and disciplinary procedures, while others consider them best practices.
In the context of representing your employer in litigation, a comprehensive understanding of these varying labour laws is essential. International law practitioners may advise their clients on managing day-to-day HR issues, ensuring compliance with local laws, and minimising litigation risks. This includes assisting in crafting workforce strategies, harmonising policy development across borders, and addressing cross-border complexities.
When disputes arise, international law professionals can provide representation in international labour disputes, arbitrating cross-border employment claims, and defending employment-related claims involving multiple jurisdictions. They may also guide employers through mediation or arbitration processes, which may be mandated or emphasised as a resolution approach in specific jurisdictions.
Furthermore, international law experts can support employers in setting global labour relations strategies, negotiating collective bargaining agreements, and handling corporate changes. They ensure that employers' interests are protected, both domestically and internationally, and help navigate the complexities of expatriate employee programs and global mobility issues. By partnering with global employers, international law practitioners provide invaluable assistance in complying with the laws of various countries, thereby reducing the likelihood of litigation and fostering positive employer-employee relationships.
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Frequently asked questions
There are plenty of career options for graduates with an international law degree, including:
- Corporate lawyer
- Policy analyst/advisor
- Mediator
- Legal advisor
- International business organisation member
International law degrees cover a broad range of topics, including:
- International corporate law
- Laws relating to migrants and refugees
- Climate change and the use of natural resources
- Transitional justice
- Diplomacy
- War
- Trade
- Human rights
- Space travel
Gaining a postgraduate degree in international law opens up a wide range of career opportunities, especially those that are internationally based. It also provides a broader worldview, allowing you to understand other legal and cultural systems across the globe.
