What is the UK's role in international courts?
I can explain the importance of international courts and the role the UK plays in them.
What is the UK's role in international courts?
I can explain the importance of international courts and the role the UK plays in them.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- International law limits suffering in war, with key rules set out in documents like the Geneva Conventions.
- The ICC prosecutes individuals for crimes like genocide and war crimes under international law.
- The ECtHR allows individuals to bring cases against Council of Europe Member States for human rights violations.
- The UK supports international courts, contributing financially and shaping human rights law globally.
Keywords
International humanitarian law - a set of international rules that limit the effects of armed conflict and ensure people, especially civilians, are treated fairly during war
International Criminal Court - a permanent international court established to investigate, prosecute and try individuals accused of the most serious crimes against humanity
European Court of Human Rights - an international court that ensures Council of Europe Member States respect the rights and guarantees outlined in the European Convention on Human Rights
Common misconception
International laws are not enforceable.
International laws are enforceable by courts if the nation has signed up to it. For example, the UK has agreed to the ICC and funds it. The USA has not agreed to the ICC so should follow international law but it is harder to enforce it.
To help you plan your year 10 citizenship lesson on: What is the UK's role in international courts?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 citizenship lesson on: What is the UK's role in international courts?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 4 citizenship lessons from the How does the UK play a role in the international community? unit, dive into the full secondary citizenship curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
the action of buying and selling goods and services
a group who have a shared interest/aims who come together voluntarily
a collection of territories/ countries/ nations governed by one power
Exit quiz
6 Questions
a set of international rules that limit the effects of armed conflict
tries individuals accused of international crimes against humanity
ensures Council of Europe members uphold rights in the Convention