This module builds on and develops LW803: the International Law of Armed Conflict, which runs in the first term. It is based around in-depth analysis of key contemporary issues associated with armed conflict. Each issue is addressed in its context. Accordingly, although the law of armed conflict is necessarily of primary concern, discussion will also address relevant rules of international law, such as international human rights law or the law on the resort to force. The objective is to ensure that students have a full understanding of both the law of armed conflict and issues surrounding its application in practice. The final list of topics to be covered will be determined together with the students at the end of LW803 in term 1, and can include subjects such as:

* Fragmented conflicts (such as those occurring in the context of the 'war on terror');
* The use of drones and advanced technologies, such as autonomous weapons systems;
* Cyber-operations;
* Non-State armed groups;
* The role of legal advisors to the armed forces;
* Humanitarian access;
* A case study of a specific current conflict