international criminal law phd thesis

• All categories

PhD research: How international prosecutors make their choices

International prosecutors, for instance at the International Criminal Court in The Hague, investigate particularly serious crimes such as genocide. They decide, among other things, whether or not to prosecute. PhD candidate Cale Davis investigated how prosecutors come to such decisions and will defend his dissertation on 23 February 2022.

Law has no life independent of people, says Davis. Law doesn’t just happen: regardless of whether it is tax law, administrative law, company law, or tort law, all law needs people to decide whether and how to implement it. ‘Some areas of law are obviously more consequential than others. International criminal law, which is all about genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity, is arguably one such area. We like to say that these sorts of crimes “offend humanity”. International prosecutors are the people in charge of investigating and prosecuting allegations of these crimes. They have to make many decisions. What and where do we need to investigate? What crimes should I charge? Who should I charge? Should I negotiate a plea deal? What witnesses should I call to give evidence at the trial? Should I appeal? And there are many, many more.’

It struck Davis that despite the fact international prosecutors are making critical decisions about how international criminal law is implemented, no one really seemed to know how and why these decisions are made. ‘This was odd, particularly given that prosecutors exercise their powers for the benefit of society.’

Several scholars in the past have shed light on this discretion, or as Davis defines it: the act of reaching a reasoned conclusion about the appropriate course of action to pursue. ‘But every facet of life informs the choices people make’, according to Davis. ‘Everyone has a unique background. A unique education. A unique perspective on what their job is. No two people are identical. We need to accept that people reason differently and stop believing in the illusion that we can come up with a one-size-fits-all rule book. Instead of trying to find the constraints, we should look at how decision-making is done in practice.’

Variety of considerations

Davis’ thesis illustrates the variety of functional, normative, and strategic considerations that have influenced choices that international prosecutors have made. It argues that these considerations have become relevant by prosecutors adopting roles as moral and procedural norm performers, builders (of law, history, institutions, and power), and guardians (over institutions, people, and concepts). ‘For example, a prosecutor might see themselves as being the guardian or protector of their court. If a court’s budget is under threat because its funders don’t think it’s doing enough, a prosecutor might think they should start prosecuting some simple cases to stave off the risk of funding being withdrawn.’

According to Davis, this thesis encourages a conscious engagement with whether it is appropriate for prosecutors to be adopting these roles in the first place. This thesis embraces the call for greater attention to be given to how the development and implementation of international criminal justice is shaped by individual practices, and highlights that, ultimately, the law cannot be properly understood without exploring the ways in which people make the decisions that transform it from an abstract set of ideas and notions into practical action.

In the field

Doing this research was a lot of fun, says Davis. ‘I was very fortunate that I got to spend a lot of time “in the field” interviewing senior prosecutors about their decision-making. That allowed me to get a lot of very interesting, first-hand insights into how discretion worked from the people that actually exercised it.’

Besides doing his research, Davis also coached Leiden’s ICC Moot Court Competition team for several years. ‘I am a firm believer in the value of this type of practical legal education. These experiences give students the chance to learn and practise valuable skills – like time management, advocacy, teamwork, and legal drafting – in a consequence-free environment.’ Even though the ICC Moot is framed as a competition, it is, first and foremost, a pedagogical exercise. ‘It’s nice to compete well, of course, but the outcome should never overshadow the learning experience.’

If Davis was to give one piece of advice to a PhD candidate just starting his or her research, it would be this: ‘During your PhD, you’re going to come across a lot of people who will happily offer you their opinions on what you should be writing about and ask whether you’ve looked into topics that you haven’t explored or even considered. Don’t worry about that. Always listen, always consider, always think – but you must also have confidence in your own project. After all, it’s your research.’

The defence of Cale Davis' dissertation will take place on February 23, 2022. The promoters are Prof. C. Stahn LLM and Dr. Joseph Poederly .

See here for more information.

• icc moot court competition
• international criminal law
• international law

International Criminal Law

• Find Articles/Journals

Available Online

Quick Links

• Brian Dickson Law Library
• Databases (A-Z)
• Journal Search (by Title)
• Subjects (A-Z)

Key Resources

• La référence (REJB/DCL) [+] [-] Barreau du Québec databases - Off-campus users will be prompted for their library UOttawa account.
• LexisNexis/Quicklaw [+] [-] Comprehensive coverage of Canadian and U.S. materials; Selective coverage of International material)
• Soquij-Recherche juridique (Azimut) [+] [-] Comprehensive coverage of Quebec case law and doctrine (French only).
• Westlaw Canada [+] [-] Comprehensive coverage of U.S. and Canadian material; Selective coverage of other International material. Includes the Canadian Abridgment and the CED Canadian Encyclopedia Digest.

THESES > Databases

Access the following databases to locate theses:

• How to Find Theses and Research Papers at U of O
• Center for Research Libraries Catalog
• Proquest dissertations & theses (uOttawa resource)
• Système universitaire de documentation (SUDOC) The Sudoc catalogue allows you to search bibliographic information on all types of documents held by French academic libraries, as well as other higher educational establishments, and on periodicals to be found in 2,900 institutions. Holdings information is provided as well. Please Note: This database provides bibliographic information on dissertations written in France.
• UO Research. Electronic Theses (FGPS) (uOttawa resource)
• WorldCat (OCLC FirstSearch) (max users: 5) Connect to 10,000+ libraries worldwide

THESES > uOttawa

Theses are always a good place to explore different theoretical contexts and points of view. 

• The International Criminal Court and the Darfur Crisis: The Prospects of Prosecuting the Sudanese President / Gariballa A. Mohamed Call Number: Available online Publication Date: 2013 Format: E-thesis
• "When elephants fight, it is the grass that is crushed" A Critical Evaluation of the Treatment of Rape Victim-Witnesses by the International Criminal Court / Kara Morris Call Number: Available online Publication Date: 2013 Format: E-thesis
• The Politics of Torture, Human Rights, and Oversight The Canadian Experience with the UN's Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT) / Erin Holmes Call Number: Available online Publication Date: 2013 Format: E-thesis
• Unaccountable Soldiers Private Military Companies and the Law of Armed Conflict / Peter McRae Call Number: Available online Publication Date: 2012 Format: E-thesis
• Deconstructing Newspaper Representations of the International Criminal Court / Amanda L. Kramer Call Number: Available online Publication Date: 2012 Format: E-thesis
• << Previous: Databases
• Next: Treaties >>

• [email protected]

Home » Blog » Dissertation » Topics » Law » International Criminal Law » 80 International Criminal Law Research Topics

80 International Criminal Law Research Topics

FacebookXEmailWhatsAppRedditPinterestLinkedInAs students embark on their academic journey towards undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degrees, the realm of research topics within International Criminal Law unveils itself as a vast and captivating landscape. Choosing the right research topic is akin to selecting the compass to guide you through the intricate labyrinth of international legal systems, human rights, and […]

As students embark on their academic journey towards undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degrees, the realm of research topics within International Criminal Law unveils itself as a vast and captivating landscape. Choosing the right research topic is akin to selecting the compass to guide you through the intricate labyrinth of international legal systems, human rights, and transnational justice. This article will navigate the diverse currents of International Criminal Law research topics, providing a comprehensive roadmap for those aspiring for a compelling and impactful thesis or dissertation. So, whether you’re a budding scholar seeking to delve into the complexities of global justice or a seasoned researcher searching for fresh perspectives, this exploration of research topics will illuminate your path in the world of international legal scholarship.

International Criminal Law is often called ICL, transnational criminal law, global justice, and international human rights law. is a branch of law that deals with prosecuting individuals or entities for international crimes, including acts such as genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and aggression.

A List Of Potential Research Topics In International Criminal Law:

• Exploring the challenges of addressing COVID-19-related disinformation and misinformation internationally.
• Investigating the relationship between international business expansion and corporate governance.
• Exploring the role of corporate diplomacy in managing international business disputes.
• Investigating the role of international organizations in addressing pandemic-related transnational crimes.
• Assessing the implications of Brexit on the UK’s extradition and mutual legal assistance treaties with non-EU countries.
• Analyzing the influence of UK’s departure from the EU on cross-border evidence sharing in criminal cases.
• Evaluating the role of cross-border cooperation in combating COVID-19-related financial crimes.
• Exploring the challenges of international marketing for luxury brands.
• Assessing the implications of Brexit on extradition agreements between the UK and EU countries.
• Investigating the effects of cultural dimensions on cross-border negotiation strategies.
• Examining the impact of currency fluctuations on multinational corporations’ financial performance.
• Evaluating the influence of global financial institutions on debt relief policies in developing nations.
• Exploring the challenges of managing international human resources in the digital age.
• Assessing the impact of international trade agreements on intellectual property protection.
• Assessing the implications of COVID-19 on international extradition treaties and practices.
• Investigating the influence of international business networks on innovation diffusion.
• Investigating the role of international arbitration in resolving cross-border commercial disputes.
• Examining the implications of COVID-19 on international human rights law and protections.
• Assessing the role of cultural factors in shaping consumer behavior in international markets.
• Assessing the influence of cultural differences on international negotiation outcomes.
• Evaluating the role of global branding in shaping consumer perceptions and preferences.
• Analyzing the implications of trade protectionism on global supply chain resilience.
• Evaluating the role of international organizations in facilitating global vaccine distribution post-COVID.
• Exploring the challenges of managing cross-border innovation networks in the tech industry.
• Jurisdictional Challenges in International Criminal Law and Insurance Law.
• Investigating the effects of the pandemic on international refugee and asylum policies.
• Investigating the effects of the pandemic on international law enforcement agencies’ capabilities.
• Investigating the role of the UK as a case study in the development of transnational criminal law.
• Examining the role of international trade in mitigating food security challenges.
• Examining the implications of trade sanctions on international supply chains.
• Examining the post-Brexit impact on UK’s participation in international criminal law enforcement.
• Analyzing the influence of cultural intelligence on global marketing strategies.
• Exploring the ethical dimensions of corporate social responsibility in international business.
• Assessing the impact of COVID-19 on international criminal justice reforms and procedures.
• Exploring the implications of digital globalization on cross-border taxation policies.
• Assessing the effects of the pandemic on international extradition and legal cooperation.
• Assessing the influence of COVID-19 on the prosecution of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
• Analyzing the impact of climate change regulations on global shipping and logistics.
• Analyzing the role of international health regulations in pandemic response and accountability.
• Exploring the challenges of prosecuting pandemic-related crimes under international law.
• Examining the role of international trade in promoting sustainable development goals.
• Analyzing the role of international trade in technology transfer and innovation diffusion.
• Evaluating the challenges of cross-border evidence gathering in the era of remote trials.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of international joint ventures in emerging economies.
• Investigating the implications of cyber-attacks on international supply chain security.
• Investigating the challenges of managing cross-cultural teams in multinational corporations.
• Evaluating the impact of Brexit on the UK’s role in international counter-terrorism efforts.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of cross-cultural training programs for global expatriates.
• Investigating the post-COVID impact on international criminal law enforcement.
• Exploring the challenges of ensuring fair and just pandemic-related trials in international courts.
• Examining the role of cultural diplomacy in promoting international business cooperation.
• Evaluating the relationship between international business strategies and environmental sustainability.
• Exploring the dynamics of global value chains in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Evaluating the impact of global economic integration on income distribution.
• Assessing the role of international business ethics in promoting responsible corporate behavior.
• Assessing the impact of international business expansion on income inequality in host countries.
• Evaluating the role of international financial institutions in managing currency crises.
• Investigating the impact of political risk on international investment decisions.
• Analyzing the implications of environmental regulations on international shipping practices.
• Assessing the impact of Brexit on UK-EU trade relations and its global ramifications.
• Data Protection in International Criminal Law and Privacy Law.
• Evaluating the impact of trade liberalization on income inequality in developing countries.
• Investigating the effects of political instability on foreign direct investment decisions.
• Analyzing the role of international organizations in addressing human rights violations in supply chains.
• Exploring the challenges of cross-border intellectual property enforcement in the digital era.
• Analyzing the role of foreign exchange markets in international financial risk management.
• Analyzing the impact of international trade policies on cross-border intellectual property disputes.
• Investigating the effects of global financial crises on foreign direct investment patterns.
• Evaluating the influence of global economic trends on foreign direct investment flows.
• Analyzing the implications of the pandemic on the enforcement of international economic sanctions.
• Evaluating the impact of the pandemic on the rights of refugees and displaced persons.
• Examining the effects of trade imbalances on global economic stability.
• Analyzing the implications of trade facilitation measures on global trade volumes.
• Analyzing the influence of the pandemic on international cybersecurity and cybercrime.
• Examining the effects of Brexit on the UK’s engagement with international human rights organizations.
• Investigating the role of multinational corporations in shaping global labor standards.
• Assessing the role of blockchain technology in enhancing international trade transparency.
• Exploring the role of international trade agreements in promoting sustainable agriculture.
• Analyzing the role of virtual court proceedings in international criminal law cases post-COVID.

In the realm of International Criminal Law, the possibilities for research are boundless, spanning across various academic levels. Whether you aim to investigate the evolving jurisprudence of the International Criminal Court, analyze the intersection of ICL and technology, or delve into the complexities of prosecuting state officials for human rights abuses, a rich tapestry of topics is awaiting exploration. As you embark on your academic journey, remember that your choice of research topic should resonate with your passion and commitment to making a meaningful contribution to the ever-evolving field of International Criminal Law. So, let your curiosity be your guide, and may your research journey be enlightening and transformative.

Order International Criminal Law Dissertation Now!

External Links:

• Download International Criminal Law Dissertation Sample For Your Perusal

Research Topic Help Service

Get unique research topics exactly as per your requirements. We will send you a mini proposal on the chosen topic which includes;

• Research Statement
• Research Questions
• Key Literature Highlights
• Proposed Methodology
• View a Sample of Service

Ensure Your Good Grades With Our Writing Help

• Talk to the assigned writer before payment
• Get topic if you don't have one
• Multiple draft submissions to have supervisor's feedback
• Free revisions
• Complete privacy
• Plagiarism Free work
• Guaranteed 2:1 (With help of your supervisor's feedback)
• 2 Installments plan
• Special discounts

Other Posts

• 80 Administrative Law Research Topics August 30, 2023 -->
• 80 Agricultural Law Research Topics August 30, 2023 -->
• 80 Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Research Topics August 30, 2023 -->
• 80 Antitrust and Competition Law Research Topics August 31, 2023 -->
• 80 Arbitration Dispute Resolution Law Research Topics September 3, 2023 -->
• 80 Banking Law Research Topics August 31, 2023 -->
• 80 Business Law Research Topics August 31, 2023 -->
• 80 Civil Rights Law Research Topics August 31, 2023 -->
• 80 Commercial Law Research Topics August 31, 2023 -->
• 80 Comparative Law Research Topics August 31, 2023 -->
• 80 Constitutional Law Research Topics September 1, 2023 -->
• 80 Consumer Law Research Topics September 1, 2023 -->
• 80 Contract Law Research Topics September 1, 2023 -->
• 80 Corporate Law Research Topics August 17, 2023 -->
• 80 Criminal Law Research Topics September 1, 2023 -->
• 80 Cyber Law Research Topics September 1, 2023 -->
• 80 Employment Law Research Topics September 1, 2023 -->
• 80 Energy Law Research Topics August 17, 2023 -->
• 80 Environmental Law Research Topics September 1, 2023 -->
• 80 Estate Planning and Probate Law Research Topics September 1, 2023 -->
• 80 Family Law Research Topics September 2, 2023 -->
• 80 Health Law Research Topics September 2, 2023 -->
• 80 Human Rights Law Research Topics September 3, 2023 -->
• 80 Immigration Law Research Topics September 3, 2023 -->
• 80 Insurance Law Research Topics September 3, 2023 -->
• 80 Intellectual Property Law Research Topics September 3, 2023 -->
• 80 International Business Law Research Topics September 3, 2023 -->
• 80 International Commercial Law Research Topics August 17, 2023 -->
• 80 International Investment Law Research Topics September 4, 2023 -->
• 80 International Law Research Topics September 4, 2023 -->

WhatsApp us

Edinburgh Research Archive

•   ERA Home
• Law, School of

Law thesis and dissertation collection

By Issue Date Authors Titles Subjects Publication Type Sponsor Supervisors

Search within this Collection:

Presented here is a selection of theses and dissertations from the School of Law. Please note that this is not a complete record of all degrees awarded by the School.

This material is presented to ensure timely dissemination of scholarly and technical work. Copyright and all rights therein are retained by authors or by other copyright holders. All persons copying this information are expected to adhere to the terms and constraints invoked by each author's copyright. In most cases, these works may not be reposted without the explicit permission of the copyright holder.

Recent Submissions

Challenges and limitations of granting legal personality to distributed/decentralized autonomous organizations , development of international shipping standards under the auspices of the imo and their implementation in practice: a case study of thailand , adequacy of the ex post armed attack framework of the jus ad bellum in relation to the evolving means and methods of warfare , governing disputed maritime areas , what we say when we criminalise: a metanormative inquiry , testamentary law in england, c. 1450-1540 , sovereign immunity from execution of foreign arbitral awards in the 21st century , conceptualizations of addiction in harm reduction strategies for effective and ethical uk drug policy , liminality and the lived experience of law in medicine: the legal consciousness of physicians in encounters with people living as undocumented migrants , contested citizenship and statelessness in question: an anlysis of cases of overseas taiwanese people and tibetan exiles in taiwan , eternity and the constitution: the promise and limits of eternity clauses , hate speech in the british press: a theoretical and practical assessment of the case for broader regulation , liberty versus security under illiberal constitutionalism: the legality of criminalising humanitarian assistance in hungary and greece , operationalising ‘publicness’ in data-intensive health research regulation: an examination of the public interest as a regulatory device , worldmaking powers of law and performance: queer politics beyond/against neoliberal legalism , development of law of the sea by unclos dispute settlement procedures: towards a coherent jurisprudence , evaluating the european union's response to online misinformation and disinformation: how to address harm while maximising freedom of expression , reconciling reverse burdens of proof with the presumption of innocence: a new approach , uses of roman law in the construction of the concept of possession in the german-speaking countries in the nineteenth century , paths of effectiveness, fairness and legitimacy for eliciting public confidence in policing and cooperation with the police in monterrey metropolitan neighbourhoods .

Academia.edu no longer supports Internet Explorer.

To browse Academia.edu and the wider internet faster and more securely, please take a few seconds to  upgrade your browser .

Enter the email address you signed up with and we'll email you a reset link.

• We're Hiring!
• Help Center

DISSERTATION THE ROLE OF THE INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT IN ENFORCING HUMAN RIGHTS LAW

Related Papers

African Journal of Legal Studies

Mba Chidi Nmaju

E. Di Paolo

Professor Sascha-Dominik Dov Bachmann

Teresa Quadt

An analysis of the never-ending codification process and the endorsement of an extended application

Beatrice Bellelli

Mafruza Sultana

Brian Musota

International Journal of Law and Legal Jurisprudence Studies

Gitanjali Ghosh

Anastase Nabahire

ABSTRACT This research work analyzes whether the International Criminal Court (ICC) has lawfully issued and circulated an arrest warrant against the sitting Head of State of Sudan, Omar Hassan Ahmad Al Bashir, and whether its request to the States parties to the Rome Statute (particularly Malawi) to arrest and surrender him is in conformity with the provisions of the Statute. In this work, the argument is made that the rules of customary international law on personal immunities of sitting Heads of State do not apply in the case of the exercise of criminal jurisdiction by an international criminal court; therefore they do not bar the exercise of the jurisdiction of the ICC with respect to an incumbent Head of State, even if this individual comes from a state not party to the Rome Statute like Sudan, especially when the case is referred to it by the UN Security Council under chapter VII of the UN Charter. However, one thing is to assert that the ICC can ‘lawfully’ issue and circulate an arrest warrant against individuals entitled to personal immunity before national courts, and quite another to say that States can ‘lawfully’ disregard the personal immunity of these same individuals, and surrender them to the requesting international court. This research work conclude that while the ICC arrest warrant is a lawful coercive act against a sitting Head of State, the ICC request to States parties to surrender President Al Bashir is contrary to Article 98(1) of the Rome Statute. Therefore, States parties are not obliged to comply with this request, as far as the Republic of Sudan will not waive personal immunity entitled to Omar Hassan Ahmad Al Bashir.

RELATED TOPICS

•   We're Hiring!
•   Help Center
• Find new research papers in:
• Health Sciences
• Earth Sciences
• Cognitive Science
• Mathematics
• Computer Science
• Academia ©2024

• Cambridge Libraries

Resources for My Subject

Law: theses & dissertations.

• UK Legislation
• UK Case Law
• Parliamentary Proceedings
• Parliamentary Papers
• Crown Dependents
• Caribbean countries
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• United States
• International Law
• Legal History
• Legal Language
• Referencing Guide
• Theses & Dissertations
• Criminology This link opens in a new window

Access to theses and dissertations from other institutions and from the University of Cambridge

This guide provides information on searching for theses of Cambridge PhDs and for theses of UK universities and universities abroad. 

For information and guidance on depositing your thesis as a cambridge phd, visit the cambridge office of scholarly communication pages on theses here ., this guide gives essential information on how to obtain theses using the british library's ethos service. .

On the last weekend of October, the British Library became the victim of a major cyber-attack. Essential digital services including the BL catalogue, website and online learning resources went dark, with research services like the EThOS collection of more than 600,000 doctoral theses suddenly unavailable. The BL state that they anticipate restoring more services in the next few weeks, but disruption to certain services is now expected to persist for several months. For the latest news on the attack and information on the restoration of services, please follow the BL blog here:  Knowledge Matters blog  and access the LibGuide page here:  British Library Outage Update - Electronic Legal Deposit - LibGuides at University of Cambridge Subject Libraries

A full list of resources for searching theses online is provided by the Cambridge A-Z, available here .

University of Cambridge theses

Finding a cambridge phd thesis online via the institutional repository.

The University's institutional repository, Apollo , holds full-text digital versions of over 11,000 Cambridge PhD theses and is a rapidly growing collection deposited by Cambridge Ph.D. graduates. Theses in Apollo can be browsed via this link . More information on how to access theses by University of Cambridge students can be found on the access to Cambridge theses webpage.   The requirement for impending PhD graduates to deposit a digital version in order to graduate means the repository will be increasing at a rate of approximately 1,000 per year from this source.   About 200 theses are added annually through requests to make theses Open Access or via requests to digitize a thesis in printed format.

Locating and obtaining a copy of a Cambridge PhD thesis (not yet available via the repository)

Theses can be searched in iDiscover .  Guidance on searching for theses in iDiscover can be found here .   Requests for consultation of printed theses, not available online, should be made at the Manuscripts Reading Room (Email:  [email protected] Telephone: +44 (0)1223 333143).   Further information on the University Library's theses, dissertations and prize essays collections can be consulted at this link .

Researchers can order a copy of an unpublished thesis which was deposited in print form either through the Library’s  Digital Content Unit via the image request form , or, if the thesis has been digitised, it may be available in the Apollo repository. Copies of theses may be provided to researchers in accordance with the  law  and in a manner that is common across UK libraries.  The law allows us to provide whole copies of unpublished theses to individuals as long as they sign a declaration saying that it is for non-commercial research or private study.

How to make your thesis available online through Cambridge's institutional repository

Are you a Cambridge alumni and wish to make your Ph.D. thesis available online? You can do this by depositing it in Apollo the University's institutional repository. Click here for further information on how to proceed.    Current Ph.D students at the University of Cambridge can find further information about the requirements to deposit theses on the Office of Scholarly Communication theses webpages.

UK Theses and Dissertations

Electronic copies of Ph.D. theses submitted at over 100 UK universities are obtainable from EThOS , a service set up to provide access to all theses from participating institutions. It achieves this by harvesting e-theses from Institutional Repositories and by digitising print theses as they are ordered by researchers using the system. Over 250,000 theses are already available in this way. Please note that it does not supply theses submitted at the universities of Cambridge or Oxford although they are listed on EThOS.

Registration with EThOS is not required to search for a thesis but is necessary to download or order one unless it is stored in the university repository rather than the British Library (in which case a link to the repository will be displayed). Many theses are available without charge on an Open Access basis but in all other cases, if you are requesting a thesis that has not yet been digitised you will be asked to meet the cost. Once a thesis has been digitised it is available for free download thereafter.

When you order a thesis it will either be immediately available for download or writing to hard copy or it will need to be digitised. If you order a thesis for digitisation, the system will manage the process and you will be informed when the thesis is available for download/preparation to hard copy.

See the Search results section of the  help page for full information on interpreting search results in EThOS.

EThOS is managed by the British Library and can be found at http://ethos.bl.uk . For more information see About EThOS .

World-wide (incl. UK) theses and dissertations

Electronic versions of non-UK theses may be available from the institution at which they were submitted, sometimes on an open access basis from the institutional repository. A good starting point for discovering freely available electronic theses and dissertations beyond the UK is the Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (NDLTD) , which facilitates searching across institutions. Information can also usually be found on the library web pages of the relevant institution.

The DART Europe etheses portal lists several thousand full-text theses from a group of European universities.

The University Library subscribes to the ProQuest Dissertations and Theses  (PQDT) database which from August 31 2023 is accessed on the Web of Science platform.  To search this index select it from the Web of Science "Search in" drop-down list of databases (available on the Documents tab on WoS home page)

PQDT includes 2.4 million dissertation and theses citations, representing 700 leading academic institutions worldwide from 1861 to the present day. The database offers full text for most of the dissertations added since 1997 and strong retrospective full text coverage for older graduate works. Each dissertation published since July 1980 includes a 350-word abstract written by the author. Master's theses published since 1988 include 150-word abstracts.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The University Library only subscribes to the abstracting & indexing version of the ProQuest Dissertations and Theses database and NOT the full text version.  A fee is payable for ordering a dissertation from this source.   To obtain the full text of a dissertation as a downloadable PDF you can submit your request via the University Library Inter-Library Loans department (see contact details below). NB this service is only available to full and current members of the University of Cambridge.

Alternatively you can pay yourself for the dissertation PDF on the PQDT platform. Link from Web of Science record display of any thesis to PQDT by clicking on "View Details on ProQuest".  On the "Preview" page you will see an option "Order a copy" top right.  This will allow you to order your own copy from ProQuest directly.

Dissertations and theses submitted at non-UK universities may also be requested on Inter-Library Loan through the Inter-Library Loans department (01223 333039 or 333080, [email protected] )

• << Previous: iDiscover
• Next: Criminology >>
• Last Updated: May 7, 2024 3:28 PM
• URL: https://libguides.cam.ac.uk/law

© Cambridge University Libraries | Accessibility | Privacy policy | Log into LibApps

Theses and Dissertations (Criminal and Procedural Law)

• UnisaIR Home
• College of Law
• School of Law
• Department of Criminal and Procedural Law
• By Issue Date

Search within this collection:

The copyright of the items in this collection belongs to the University of South Africa

Recent Submissions

• Appropriate versus alternative : litigation in the context of dispute resolution methods in Ghana  Kotochie, Clemence ( 2023-07-25 ) The study sought to accomplish three main tasks. These were to clarify ‘appropriate dispute resolution method’, design a mechanism for selecting an appropriate dispute resolution method for use in resolving disputes and ...
• Bail and the presumption of innocence : a comparative legal study  Gissing, A. ( 2022-11-30 ) Every person arrested for allegedly having committed a crime, has a constitutional right to be released on bail if the interests of justice permit and subject to reasonable conditions. Every accused has a constitutional ...
• The role of the presiding officer in South African child justice proceedings : a comparative critique of procedural models  Ndlazi, Muziyabongwa Bongani ( 2023-06-15 ) This research explores the role of the presiding officer in child justice proceedings in South Africa, Germany, and Scotland. The researcher investigates the active participation of the presiding officer as a feature of ...
• A comparative study of the exercise of prosecutorial discretion in South Africa, Australia, and the United States of America  Sithole, Sylvester ( 2023-05-11 ) The quest to reduce criminality by effective prosecution has become the paramount role of prosecutors in criminal jurisdictions worldwide. As gatekeepers of the criminal justice system, prosecutors perform different roles ...
• A critical review of the criminalisation of sex work in South Africa : a comparative legal study  Mutiso, Antonio Muinde ( 2022-01-20 ) The objective of this research is to critically examine the causes and consequences of the criminalisation of sex work between consenting adults in South Africa by means of a comparative approach. In order to achieve this ...
• The revisionary jurisdiction of the higher courts of Botswana and England in the review of decisions of private bodies  Maripe, Bugalo ( 2022-02-28 ) Botswana has a peculiar legal system. It is a former British protectorate, yet the British never introduced their own laws into the country. Instead Botswana was made to apply the law of the Colony of the Cape of Good ...
• Alternative dispute resolution for juveniles in crime : a case for Ghana’s legal system  Hassan, Elizabeth Temitope ( 2022-06 ) This research sets out to explore the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution in Ghana's juvenile justice system, emphasizing traditional customs and practices to solve juvenile delinquency. The mixed-method approach was ...
• An analysis of the sentencing of human trafficking offenders under South African and international law  Ntlatlapa, Itumeleng Lydia ( 2021-11-15 ) There are concerns that the sentencing regime of offenders convicted of human trafficking in South Africa under the Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Act 77 of 2013 is too harsh and goes beyond the ...
• Use of force by South African security services : a comparative critique  Matubako, Matlhoko Scholtz ( 2022-02 ) One of the most serious challenges facing South Africa currently is the high rate of violent crime as well as violent protests. The police are tasked and empowered by the Constitution as well as statutes to prevent, combat, ...
• The powers of a peace officer to arrest a suspect without a warrant, detain and use force : its constitutionality and consequences on the rights of a suspect  Gopaul, Arusha ( 2022-03 ) Peace officers are empowered to arrest without a warrant, detain and use force on suspects. Suspects are guaranteed protection and promotion of their constitutional rights and any act that violates their constitutional ...
• Offences rising from the right to gather : a legal comparative study  Steyn, Anna Sophia ( 2021-02 ) To gather together is a natural human activity shared by all people. The majority of these activities take place without the involvement of the government, and is of no interest to the law. In South Africa, the right to ...
• The legitimacy of judicial law-making and the application of judicial discretion in South Africa : a legal comparative study  Mhlanga, Pete Vusi ( 2020-02 ) The concept of judicial law-making impacts on the extent, meaning and scope relationship between the legislature, the executive and the judiciary. It is an integral function of the courts while its shape, meaning and nature ...
• A historical-legal analysis of search and seizure of electronic records for the prosecution of financial crimes in South Africa  Poyo, Unathi ( 2020-09-01 ) Crime has been around since the beginning of time. In an evolving society, and the methodology of crime also changes. The methodology of combating and preventing crime should aim to match the speed at which crime occurs. ...
• The interpretation and application of dolus eventualis in South African criminal law  Awa, Linus Tambu ( 2019-11 ) An accused cannot be held criminally liable by a court until he is considered to be culpable, a process which entails establishing criminal capacity and intention (dolus) or negligence (culpa). Determining a perpetrator’s ...
• The need for decriminalization of the use of cannabis : a comparative legal study  Singh, Vishik Anil ( 2019-09-04 ) The research determined if constitutional justification existed for the decriminalisation of the use of cannabis for medical and recreational purposes. Various constitutional values were employed when deciding on the ...
• Restorative justice as an alternative sentencing option in South Africa: A different approach to crime  Reliance, Bongani Mokomane ( 2020 ) Concerns with the current criminal justice system in many countries around the world have triggered an interest in alternative methods of dispensing justice. This is because of its failure to effectively reduce crime and ...
• A comparative study of laws governing domestic violence in Ethiopia and India  Raveendran Nair, K. P. ( 2018 ) This study aimed to compare the laws governing domestic violence in Ethiopia and India and to then determine their practical efficacy. Data was collected using in-depth interviews with victims of domestic violence, and an ...
• A restorative approach towards school discipline and behavioural conduct in South African schools: a case study  Buys, Irma ( 2018-09 ) Misconduct, antisocial and offending (criminal) behaviour is becoming a problem in South African schools and maintaining discipline in schools is facing many challenges. Current practices do not solve disciplinary challenges. ...
• A critical appraisal of the legal implications of South Africa’s withdrawal from the ICC in the context of its international and regional human rights obligations  Suckling, Brian Charles ( 2018-04 ) This study involves a critical appraisal of the legal implications of South Africa’s withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the context of its international and regional human rights obligations. The ...
• The impact of e-technology on law of civil procedure in South Africa  Mabeka, Nombulelo Queen ( 2018 ) The law of civil procedure is an important branch of South African law as it resolves individual civil disputes through a regulated judicial system. Mandatory statutes and rules regulate the processes when bringing disputes ...

Search UnisaIR

All of unisair.

• Communities & Collections

This Collection

• Bukau, Susan Charlotte (2)
• Cassim, Fawzia (2)
• Gopaul, Arusha (2)
• Kalwahali, Kakule (2)
• Ahmed, Raheel (1)
• Awa, Linus Tambu (1)
• Barwise, Maria Elizabeth Danetta (1)
• Basdeo, Vinesh (1)
• Bekker, Petrus Marthinus (1)
• ... View More
• Criminal procedure -- South Africa (10)
• 345.4068 (7)
• 345.56068 (7)
• Constitutional law -- South Africa (7)
• Constitution (6)
• Civil rights -- South Africa (5)
• Evidence (Law) -- South Africa (5)
• Human rights -- South Africa (5)
• Capital punishment -- South Africa (4)
• Criminal law -- South Africa (4)

Date Issued

• 2020 - 2023 (14)
• 2010 - 2019 (23)
• 2000 - 2009 (13)
• 1992 - 1999 (31)

Has File(s)

• View Usage Statistics

University of South Florida

School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies

College of Arts and Sciences

Main Navigation

Graduate programs, phd in politics and international affairs.

The doctoral degree in politics and international affairs is an interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students to teach at the university and college levels and to conduct high-level research in the academic and nonacademic sectors. It combines a broad focus on international relations, comparative politics, American politics, and political theory with a critical understanding of institutions, rights, citizenship/identity, governance, global policy, and justice. Students work closely with faculty to frame their dissertation research and to advance their knowledge of their chosen fields of specialization. The program’s interdisciplinary approach to a variety of global issues provides a rich and open-ended opportunity to research current and past problems, movements, and transformations in politics.

We welcome your interest in our doctoral program. The department's deadline for fall admission is January 5. The School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies only admits for the fall semester. Students must apply online through the Office of Graduate Admissions. For a listing of the admission requirements, students should consult the Graduate Catalog . 

*Effective starting with the 2023-2024 admissions cycle, GRE test scores are no longer required for applications to our doctoral program in Politics and International Affairs*

*International students should review the Office of Admissions International Students website for additional information and requirements.

*International students are also encouraged to contact the Office of International Services for information on visas, international travel, etc. 

PLEASE NOTE: International students whose native language is not English and who want to be considered for a teaching assistantship must show proficiency in spoken English even if their TOEFL has been waived for admission to a graduate program. More information on the TOEFL requirement can be found under Admission Requirements in the graduate catalog.

Program Requirements

For the Doctoral Degree in Politics and International Affairs degree requirements, students should consult the Graduate Catalog. Students should adhere to the requirements within the Graduate Catalog under which they were admitted.

• Degree Requirements Beginning 2023-2024 Catalog

*Students can elect another catalog following the one they were admitted under. More information on this policy, and other policies, can be found in the Graduate Catalog.

*Students must request approval from the graduate director for any course not pre-approved and listed under the degree in the Graduate Catalog.

Additional information on program requirements:

Student can also select POS 6933/6747 Advanced Topics in Quantitative Political Analysis or another graduate course approved by the graduate director for the methods requirement. The Capstone Seminar will be conducted with doctorial students in Sociology and History and focus on dissertation proposal. 

Research Fields

The Doctorate in Politics and International Affairs specializes in the following four fields of research:

International Relations In the School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies, the International Relations (IR) faculty focuses on four areas of study: international relations theory, global political economy, international security, and human rights. We stress the importance of cutting-edge scholarship in our teaching of the graduate seminars as well as bridging the many emergent gaps in theory and practice in the various subfields that comprise International Relations, including American foreign policy, international ethics, global governance, and international law and organizations. One of our central aims is to advance innovative applications of the central theoretical perspectives (and their variant strands) in International Relations, namely, realism, liberalism, critical theory, constructivism, Marxism, international political theory, and gender. These applications involve in-depth theoretical and empirical analysis of key global issues, such as Asian security, moral accountability, the enforcement of human rights, immigration, and political and economic inequality. The International Relations faculty have published numerous books and peer-reviewed articles on these issue areas. These include monographs on the political tensions on the Korean Peninsula or North Korea’s nuclear arms buildup, the political cosmopolitan character and shifting dynamics of the International Criminal Court (ICC), hegemony and inequality in the global political economy, and China’s rapidly increasing support of intervention in African states. Together our published research emphasizes the production of critical theoretic knowledge, or the advanced methodological analysis of the contradictions and tensions informing the substantive debates in International Relations. This not only requires the particular mastery of concepts, methods, and claims but also an open-ended and historical understanding of the changing social forces shaping the behavior of states and the relations among global and local actors. It is this scholarly approach that we adopt to train our graduate students specializing in international relations, particularly as they advance their dissertation research and empirical knowledge of the global and regional contexts of problems and issues. One of the outcomes we strive for, then, is to encourage our doctoral students to develop rigorous theoretical and contextual analysis from which they can devise solutions and prescriptions to global issues.

Comparative Politics Comparative Politics in the School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies is committed to theory-driven, empirical research from an interdisciplinary perspective that is situated in a political, historical, cultural, and economic context.  The Comparative Politics faculty employ a variety of methodological approaches from both the social sciences and humanities, which utilize qualitative and quantitative research methods to study the patterns of similarities and differences. In particular, we conduct comparative and case study research to inquire into these patterns and to develop our theoretical propositions. One of our aims is to produce knowledge about the changing social, political, and legal conditions affecting the lives, development, cultural practices, and customs of underrepresented peoples. In meeting this aim, our research focuses on several themes of comparative politics, including social movements, democracy/democratization, citizenship, decolonization, genocide, hegemony, race and identity, development, legal systems and customary law, social justice, and indigenismo or the political ideology focusing on the changing relations of state and local peoples. Much of our published research draws creatively on social, critical, and political theory to advance knowledge of the laws, changing social relations, and attitudes in several countries, which includes Brazil, Ecuador, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Uganda, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Iran. Our research strengths lie in the areas of race and citizenship, social movements theory, human security and law (or legal custom) in Eastern Africa, indigenous rights in various Latin American countries, and security relations in the Middle East. With these thematic foci, we encourage graduate students to create and develop their own research by selecting a region of the world as their emphasis and adopting theoretically informed research and comparative methods that allow them to analyze the changing social and political conditions in the countries of this region.

American Politics The study of American Politics in the doctorate program in politics and international affairs provides a comprehensive overview as well as an in-depth analysis of American politics. Our faculty focus on various aspects of American politics, including theoretical foundations, federalism, institutions (Congress, the executive branch, the bureaucracy, the judiciary), political behavior (political parties, the media, interest groups, social movements, and elections), and public policy (foreign and domestic), and employ a range of methodological approaches such as historical development, legal doctrine, institutional rules, and quantitative analyses of the behavior of political actors and the mass public, to advance the student's research skills.  Our core class, Seminar in American Politics, for instance, surveys the key foundations, institutions, and behavior in American politics, introducing students to both qualitative and quantitative methodological approaches for analyzing and testing the changing trends and outcomes in American politics. Special topics courses provide opportunities to gain in-depth knowledge on new research on a range of themes, including political development, the social bases of politics, and the global impact of American politics. The faculty in American politics have made important contributions in the areas of race and ethnicity, the judiciary, the presidency, Florida government, civil liberties, health care, environmental justice, economic inequality, and animal rights. Our strengths lie in economic inequality, animal rights, the Presidency, Judicial Behavior, Race and Ethnicity, and State and Local Government. In these specific areas, we have published several cutting-edge books and articles in leading peer-reviewed journals, which examine the emergence and implementation of nonhuman animals' regime of rights, the changing directions of the U.S. Federal Reserve Bank and its impact on world politics, and alternative strategies for natural disasters in the United States. Our scholarship is thus distinctive for the ways in which it addresses American government and politics in a global context. This is how we seek to train our doctoral students on the rapidly changing, nuanced linkages between local, state, federal and global institutional politics.  

Political Theory Political Theory introduces students to the core normative issues in the study of political science. These normative issues provide the bedrock assumptions on which much of the study of political science depends. For example, while nearly everyone agrees that democracy is the best form of government, why do we place such faith in it? In addition, the long tradition of political thought offers multiple versions of democracy, each with its own strengths and limitations. How are we to identify the best version for our needs? Similarly, while we might extol non-violence in politics, is it always the best path for political movements? How are we to justify its alternatives? Clarifying our moral commitments, sharpening our conceptual tools, and outlining pathways for transforming theoretical knowledge into action requires philosophical, historical, and conceptual capabilities. The political theory faculty at the School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies trains students to develop these capabilities. To that end, political theory classes not only familiarize students with many of the canonical texts that were read by generations of prominent political thinkers (from Aristotle to Martin Luther King Jr), they also teach students to read these texts critically and with an eye towards contemporary political developments. As such, training in political theory is a critical supplement to graduate work at School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies. The faculty’s expertise in feminist theory, postcolonial theory, the role of emotions in politics, environmental political thought, and Indian political thought complements the terminal degrees offered in American Politics, Comparative Politics, and International Relations.

Financial Assistance 

Most of our successful applicants qualify for funding offered by the department or the Office of Graduate Studies. Funded doctoral students will receive a graduate assistantship that includes:

• a stipend for the academic year (9 months)
• a tuition waiver (not including school fees)
• the option of health insurance mostly paid by the department (the student only pays a small amount towards insurance).

All applicants for the doctoral degree are considered for a graduate assistantship - they do not need to complete a separate form.

The graduate assistantship is guaranteed for four years but is based on maintaining satisfactory annual academic progress. It requires each student to work 20 hours per week, in which case the student would be first assisting professors of the department with their teaching and class preparations and later, after having passed the doctoral comprehensive exams and completed teacher training seminars, teach a class at the University of South Florida. 

Please visit the graduate assistantships page for further information. The department also provides funding for conference travel or the presentation of research at conferences upon approval.

Information on eligibility for graduate assistantships can be found on the Graduate Assistantships Resource Center website. 

We also strive to fund our students in the fifth year, though this funding is not guaranteed. Depending on additional funds that become available, students may have the opportunity to extend their graduate assistantship to one, possibly two academic semesters. Students in the fifth year are also encouraged to seek external funding. For more information on this, please consult our Graduate Resources Page .

Outstanding candidates may also be nominated by the school’s director and/or graduate committee for prestigious and highly competitive university fellowships, including the Presidential Doctoral Fellowship , the Dorothy Auzenne Fellowship , and the University Graduate Fellowship. There is also the opportunity for minority students to be awarded a McKnight Fellowship, which provides annual tuition up to $5,000 for each of three academic years, plus an annual stipend of $12,000. The program also offers travel grants and other forms of financial support. For additional information on this fellowship opportunity, please visit the McKnight Fellowship's informational page.

• Politics and International Affairs Doctoral Handbook 2022 - 2023
• School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies Graduate Resources
• Independent Study / Directed Research Contract
• Office of Graduate Studies Forms
• Dissertation Proposal Approval Form
• Admission to Doctoral Candidacy Form
• Graduate Student Supervisory Committee Appointment Form
• Dissertation Checklist
• Electronic Thesis & Dissertation Certificate of Approval Form
• Comprehensive Exam Reading Lists
• Research Conference Travel Award Request
• Dissertation Defense Announcment

Spring 2024 Course Offerings

Recent Placements

For further information or questions about the PhD in Politics and International Affairs, please fill out this form . 

University of Bridgeport News

Master’s in Criminal Justice Thesis Track vs. Internship Track

Candidates looking for a challenging, rewarding, and high-earning position in the criminal justice field usually find themselves pondering whether to return to school via a Criminal Justice Master’s degree program. In researching the decision, many candidates stumble upon the decision of choosing between a thesis track and an internship track of study.

Below, we’ll discuss the different types of Master’s in Criminal Justice degrees, including the Master’s in Criminal Justice thesis track program and the Master’s in Criminal Justice internship program, to help you determine which would be best for your career.

What is a Master’s in Criminal Justice?

A Criminal Justice Master’s degree, like the Master’s in Criminal Justice and Human Security program at University of Bridgeport, is designed to give students knowledge and expertise in the worldwide political, cultural, and socioeconomic conditions contributing to crime and its attenuation. These programs also focus on the cultural, ethnic, religious, and ideological differences commonly found at the crossroads of criminal acts, violence, and terror.

Program prerequisites for Master’s in Criminal Justice degrees vary depending on the college or university. At University of Bridgeport, for example, students must:

• Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or recognized international institution
• Have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Have two years of college-level language study or fluency in a second language (Students who have not completed this requirement but feel that they have language competency to this level may take an oral and written exam confirming such competency, or they may complete the language requirement at University of Bridgeport or another regionally accredited institution of higher education before the conclusion of the degree program.)
• Submit an application
• Submit a personal statement (250-500 words) detailing why they are seeking this degree, how you expect to apply your degree to your professional career after graduation, and why you desire to pursue your degree through University of Bridgeport
• Submit a resume
• Submit their official transcript for the last degree earned
• Submit two letters of recommendation commenting on your work ethic, communication skills, and ability to complete a graduate degree program.

Master’s in Criminal Justice Thesis track

Criminal Justice Master’s degree programs often offer students the opportunity to choose between a Master’s in Criminal Justice Thesis track program or a Master’s in Criminal Justice Internship program.

Both of these tracks include eighteen semester hours of core courses and eighteen semester hours of electives . These courses often cover in-depth topics, including:

• Cyberterrorism
• Domestic, international, and comparative criminal law
• Human security
• Transnational crime

Furthermore, the Master’s in Criminal Justice Thesis track, as the name suggests, requires students to dedicate multiple semesters to focus on research and data collection.

Upon completion of their research, each student is then required to write a large-formatted paper sharing their methods, data, and discovery to be published.

At University of Bridgeport, students in the Master’s in Criminal Justice Thesis track take the following courses:

• Criminal Justice Research Methods
• Human Security and Approaches to Justice
• Law Enforcement Management
• U.S. Law and Criminal Justice

Master’s in Criminal Justice Internship track

The Master’s in Criminal Justice Internship track is another popular and common option for students, especially those who want to gain hands-on experience or do not have the time or desire to conduct multi-semester research.

While students in non-thesis degree programs may be required to write papers or complete large projects, there are no expectations that these papers will be published.

Internship track programs, like the one at University of Bridgeport, allow students to intern during their final semesters of the program, giving them hands-on skills and experience to use in their future careers.

At University of Bridgeport, students in the Master’s in Criminal Justice Internship track take the same courses as students in the thesis track, but instead of a thesis, they take:

• CJHS 591 – Internship
• CJHS 598 – Tutorial

Thesis track vs. internship track: Which one is right for me?

Deciding whether to enroll in a Master’s in Criminal Justice thesis track degree versus a Master’s in Criminal Justice Internship track degree ultimately depends on a student’s needs, interests, and goals.

Both types of Master’s in Criminal Justice degrees can lead to exciting, fulfilling, and rewarding careers as:

• Correctional caseworker
• Criminologist
• Cybersecurity investigator
• Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Agents
• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Agent
• Federal Marshall
• Forensic psychologists
• Intelligence analyst
• Police supervisors and detective supervisors

If you want to pursue a research-heavy field, submit your writing to academic journals, or obtain a Ph.D., a Master’s in Criminal Justice Thesis track program would be the best fit. But if you do not enjoy writing and thrive on project-based, real-world assignments, a Master’s in Criminal Justice Internship Program is a great choice.

Earn your Criminal Justice Master’s degree at University of Bridgeport

No matter if you choose the thesis track vs internship track, University of Bridgeport’s Criminal Justice and Human Security Master’s degree program makes sure graduates are well-prepared and ready to work in the area of criminal justice, international security, defense, intelligence, and transnational crime prevention or deterrence anywhere in the world.

Financial aid is available , and our comprehensive support services are here to help you get through college and into a great career.

Apply today or contact us for more information . The completed application and all supporting documents for our Master of Arts (M.A.) in Criminal Justice and Human Security degree must be received by July 15th for the fall semester and December 1st for the spring semester.

We can’t wait for you to join the Purple Knight family!

Search term

Law phd theses.

At Maastricht University, a PhD degree is not just a study but a serious research project that adds new knowledge to a given field. There are three ways to become a PhD candidate at UM, which are outlined below. As a PhD candidate, you’ll spend most of your time conducting original research and writing a dissertation.

  PhD defences at the Faculty of Law

Latest PhD theses

How Algorithms Threaten Our Freedom of Expression, and What the EU Can (and Should) Do About It

PhD thesis written by Valentina Golunova This thesis has examined how the use of algorithms for the detection of illegal or harmful content on online platforms affects freedom of expression of EU citizens. Algorithmic content moderation is often hailed as an innovative solution to the problem of...

Modern insurgency warfare’s incompatibility with the principle of distinction

PhD thesis written by Andrés Horacio Cáceres-Solari The research argues the incompatibility of the principle of distinction as codified/internationally interpreted in modern insurgency warfare. It argues that current IHL is narrow in scope to regulate modern insurgency warfare, establishes...

Opening the black box of victim-offender mediation

PhD thesis written by Jiska Jonas Victim-offender mediation (VOM) in criminal cases is a growing judicial practice in Europe and abroad. In VOM victim and offender have a conversation in presence of a trained mediator. This process can help victims to recover and offenders to take responsibility...

Private partnerships in early modern Antwerp

PhD thesis written by Patrick Naaktgeboren This dissertation investigates private partnerships in seventeenth- and eighteenth-century Antwerp (1621–1791) from both a legal historical and a socioeconomic perspective. Whereas the legal-historical part deals with the interaction between Antwerp...

Artificial intelligence, criminal liability, new technologies and law

PhD thesis written by Alice Giannini The idea of criminal behavior of artificial intelligence (AI) systems is nothing new. In fact, science fiction has been dealing for decades with evil robots rebelling against humans and taking control, or with machines that go crazy and act unpredictably. Yet, it...

Effective Cross-Border Pension Information in the Face of Multi-Level Legal Systems A cross-disciplinary research into the cross-border taxation of pensions

PhD thesis written by Sander Paul Martijn Kramer A growing number of mobile individuals, who take advantage of their European freedoms of movement, face a lack of comprehensive pension information. This obstacle can hinder those who need pension information the most in making well-informed...

Rethinking Environmental Salvage and Salvage Law:Towards an Efficient Mechanism for Environmental Emergency Response in Maritime Accidents?

PhD thesis written by Haiyang Yu Professional marine salvors who have the emergency response capacity to maritime casualties traditionally are rewarded on a ‘No Cure-No Pay' basis under the maritime law of salvage. However, in cases involving potentially significant environmental damage, such as...

Illegal waste management activity in the process of bunker fuel production: a criminological case study of corporate environmental crime and its enforcement

PhD thesis written by Giulia Giardi This book draws on never-before used data on both crimes and enforcement to shed light on this murky world. Whether you are professionally or privately engaged in contrasting corporate crime or environmental harm, this book can enhance your perspective and toolset...

Voting Matters: An Analysis of the Use of Electoral-Assistive Devices through the Lens of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

PhD thesis written by Adriana Caballero Pérez This study adopts an evidence-based approach and a mixed research design to explore the de facto realization of the right to vote by persons with disabilities, or the ‘opportunity’ to enjoy this right on an equal basis with others.

Compensation and prevention for damage resulting from offshore drilling in China

PhD thesis written by Minzhen Jiang. Based on a law and economics approach, observations are made on the efficiency of the legal regime to evaluate if the existing rules are in line with economic starting points. Following the limitations of the Chinese legal system as specified, the study ends with...

Welcome Maria Breskaya - our new external PhD student

Maria Breskaya recently joined M-EPLI as an external PhD student. Maria will carry out research on smart contracts and their relationship to the traditional legal notion of contract. The research is supervised by Professor Jan Smits and dr. Caroline Cauffman.

Welcome dr. Francesco Zappatore as a visiting researcher

After completing his Ph.D. on 31 March 2022, defending his dissertation on the theme of punitive damages from a comparative perspective at the University of Foggia Law School that was written under the guidance of his mentor, Professor Francesco Astone, he soon had the opportunity to start a post...

Beyond Bilateralism: a theory of state responsibility for breaches of non-bilateral obligations

PhD thesis written by Sally Thin. Thus far we lacked a theory of state responsibility for the breach of non-bilateral obligations: what such responsibility is, how it operates, and what it means for international law.

Highly Mobile Workers and the Coordination of Social Security in the EU – Opening and Closing Pandora’s Box

PhD thesis written by Eva van Ooij. With many forms of flexible work, it seems more important than ever to map out mobility-related issues that highly mobile workers may encounter and to explore possible routes towards more legal certainty regarding their social security protection. That is, exactly...

A pragmatic approach to the link to origin: EU PDOs and PGIs for registration, innovation and trade in origin products

PhD thesis written by Maurizio Crupi. In view of the ongoing EU GI reform, this research formulates policy recommendations on how to draw a clear distinction between PDOs and PGIs. The aim is to increase the clarity and understandability of the EU quality schemes for agricultural and non...

The Patchwork in the Sky

PhD thesis written by Emma Moulds. This research critically examines how the eight largest global markets regulate airlines from the three different perspectives of trade and market access, investment and airline alliances.

Local content requirements in WTO law: between free trade and the right to development

PhD thesis written by Natália de Lima Figueiredo. In the international arena, there is a strong rhetoric against a type of industrial policy measure called local content requirements (LCRs). They are often characterised, especially by developed countries, as protectionist measures. 

The concept of necessity in WTO Law: lessons from and for the other fields of international law

PhD thesis written by Senai W. Andemariam . This research investigates whether coherence can be maintained in the concept of necessity across different fields of international law.

Transparent enforcement access to information related to the monitoring of EU environmental law

PhD thesis written by Mathias Nikolaus Müller. This study examines to what extent the right to access environmental information - which is enshrined in the Aarhus Convention, the Environmental Information Directive, and national law - can be used by the public to access information related to...

Outlaw motorcycle gangs in the Meuse Rhine Euregion

PhD thesis written by Kim Geurtjens. This book deals with the history of OMCGs and the responses in each country, the authorities involved in the response, and contemporary problems in the Meuse Rhine Euregion.

Game clones and copyright infringement: a comparative study of judicial practices in the US, Japan and China

PhD thesis written by Xiao Wang. The thesis explored whether a video game will constitute copyright infringement if something in that game (such as display on the screen, software, game mechanics, and so on) is similar to an earlier game. 

De dubbele woonplaats in het socialezekerheidsrecht

PhD thesis written by Marjolein van Everdingen.  This dissertation deals with the application of residence related rules to persons with a dual residence. It describes the role of residence in Dutch social security law in general and the phenomenon of dual residence in particular.

Blaming the Addicted Brain

PhD thesis written by Anna Goldberg. In this thesis, an overview of the different ways of conceptualising addiction is provided, before applying this knowledge onto both the legal framework of Dutch criminal law, and to more universal legal concepts. 

La Mise En Oeuvre Du Droit Applicable Aux Changements Climatiques: Le Cas Du Benin

PhD thesis written by Amidou Yekini. This study on the law of climate change – illustrated by the case of Benin, a developing country exposed to the harmful effects of climate change – aims to highlight the effectiveness of climate law in this country. 

Legitimate by nature?

PhD thesis written by Claire Boost. This research aims to examine the measures taken by the ICTR to promote its legitimacy. Legitimacy examines the factors that incentivise a community or society to consent to the legitimacy of an individual, group or institution. 

Reviewing the Information Paradigm

PhD thesis written by Madalena Narciso. EU consumer law imposes many duties to inform on professional parties. To comply with these duties, traders provide consumers with substantial amounts of information to be read before the conclusion of a contract. However, consumers do not frequently read this...

National parliaments in the European Union

PhD thesis written by Sofie Wolf. A legal comparison between the Dutch and the German parliament in EU affairs. The purpose of this dissertation is to compare the activities of the Dutch and German parliament in EU affairs. 

Conflict or Concord?

PhD thesis written by Prashant Sabharwal. The Jurisprudential Response of the National Constitutional Courts of Germany, France and the United Kingdom to the Primacy Doctrine of the Court of Justice of the European Union from 2005 to 2015 – and the Lessons to be Learnt.

The implementation of the international climate regime in West Africa: case of Togo, Niger, Burkina Faso

PhD thesis written by Akouvi Okpè Abalo. Considered to be the most affected, fragile and vulnerable to climate change, poor West African states are at the heart of the international climate regime. They are thus subject to a series of conventional obligations whose implementation is highlighted in...

Protecting societal interests in corporate takeovers

PhD thesis written by Huizi Ai The thesis found that under the current regulatory framework of takeovers in the U.K., Germany and China, public laws (competition law and FDI screening laws) recognize and protect certain public interest considerations in takeovers, of which the national security...

De videoreconstructie in het strafproces: van verbeelding naar juridische werkelijkheid

PhD thesis written by Jan Willem van Manen The central question in The Video Reconstruction in Criminal Proceedings is what contribution the video reconstruction makes to finding the truth in the criminal procedure and how this contribution can be optimised.

Considering the native land of witnesses: cultural influences on memory reports

PhD thesis written by Nkansah Anakwah The research shows witnesses with sub-Saharan African background are less elaborative in their eyewitness accounts than witnesses socialised in Western European cultures. Findings are discussed with respect to culturally determined reporting norms of the witness...

International responsibility and attribution of conduct: an analysis of case law on human rights and humanitarian law

PhD thesis written by Remy Jorritsma This thesis analyses the standard and function of attribution rules in the case law of human rights courts, quasi-judicial human rights bodies, and international criminal courts with jurisdiction over violations of humanitarian law.

Financial Instruments and their Proportionality and Consistency under EU Law

PhD thesis written by Maximilian Vollmer This thesis investigated whether the European Commission designs financial instruments and applies their legal framework in accordance with the principles of proportionality and consistency under European Union (EU) law.

Remedies for Human Rights Violations by the European Union

PhD thesis written by Alexis Antoniades.  This thesis concentrates on this relationship between the EU and individual applicants in human rights cases. It critically analyses how the EU may be held accountable for violations of human rights through procedures and remedies available to the individual...

Facilitating cross-border real estate transactions in Europe: An exploration

PhD thesis written by Katja Zimmermann .  The aim of this research is to explore how cross-border real estate transactions in Europe can be facilitated. 

The evolution of sustainable development in public international law

PhD thesis written by Michelle Kristy.  This dissertation explores the implications of the evolution of the concept of sustainable development in public international law for the WTO agreements covering the domestic regulation of trade in goods. 

The impact of Europeanization in Cyprus Contract Law and the spill-over to matters of civil procedure

PhD thesis written by Nicholas Mouttotos . This dissertation analyzes the impact that European Union law has had upon Cyprus law, focusing on the problems that arose after the financial crisis and how EU law can be used as a vehicle for dealing with problems of over-indebtedness. 

General principles as systemic elements of international law

PhD thesis written by Craig Eggett. This study considered the nature of “general principles of law” in the international legal system. While much is known about treaties and customary law, there is a tendency to overlook foundational theoretical questions about general principles in international...

Taxation of passive investment income in tax treaties between developing and developed countries

PhD thesis written by Garfias von Fürstenberg. The aim of this doctoral thesis is to determine whether the criteria / principles which govern the treatment of passive investment income in double taxation conventions (DTCs) between developing and developed countries are effective and appropriate for...

La protection des transports de marchandises par mer en droit ivoirien

PhD thesis written by Yapo Firmin AKA. There is legislation in Ivorian law governing the transport of goods by sea. It deals with the protection of goods and the safety of navigation. However, given the limits it contains, it deserves to be improved.

Judicial activism and restraint in the creation of the International Judicial Function

PhD thesis written by Leonie Ayoub . The thesis attempts to bring coherence to the manner in which international courts and tribunals interpret international law, how they reason out their decisions, and the subsequent effect that this has had upon the institutions themselves.

Facilitating falsification in legal decision-making: problems in practice and potential solutions

PhD thesis written by Enide Maegherman . This thesis researched the role of falsification in legal decision-making. Namely, how judges consider exonerating evidence and alternative scenarios. This was researched in practice through a survey, interviews, and a case study.

Switzerland and the European Union

PhD thesis written by Joel Günthardt. The Implications of the Institutional Framework and the Right of Free Movement for the Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications

Towards a comprehensive dispute settlement system in a China-EU bilateral investment treaty

PhD thesis written by Chunlei Zhao. Since 2013, China and the EU have launched the negotiations on a China-EU Bilateral Investment Treaty. 

Informal fund transfer systems: mechanisms, survival and adaptation

PhD thesis written by Han Chang Ryung.

Multinational enterprises, European state aid and transfer pricing

PhD thesis written by Paulina Szotek-Ververken. A Study of the Application of EU State Aid Law to Transfer Pricing and Allocation of Income to Permanent Establishments.

Strict liability and the aims of Tort Law

PhD thesis written by Alexandru Daniël On. This PhD thesis contributes to the comparative law and legal-theoretical debates around strict liability.

The enforceability of interim measures granted by an emergency arbitrator in international commercial arbitration

PhD thesis written by Junmin Zhang. The emergency arbitrator mechanism makes interim measures possible for parties involved in international commercial arbitration before the constitution of arbitral tribunals under urgent situations. However, with the development of the emergency arbitrator...

Ad Valorem Tariffs and Customs Valuation

PhD thesis written by Leonardo Correia Lima Macedo. This dissertation investigates the adoption of ad valorem tariffs in association with the WTO rules on customs valuation for countries’ revenue needs. 

stanford phd international relations