International Law

The International Law Department of the Center for Naval Warfare Studies serves as the Naval War College's focal point for the study of international and maritime law and oceans policy as they affect US military policy, strategy and operations.  Through scholarly research, publication, teaching, and international engagement, the Department substantially advances the understanding of complex legal and policy issues confronting the United States and other nations today and in the future.  The Department also hosts an annual international law conference that draws the world’s leading international law experts; provides legal support to War Games; conducts workshops on emerging legal issues, and co-hosts an annual International Law of Military Operations course and Maritime Security Cooperation Workshop for legal advisors from the U.S. and abroad.  When requested, the Department provides advice to the Fleet and other DOD entities on a variety of international, operational, and maritime legal issues.  As part of its research, the Department compiles, edits, and publishes the annual “Blue Book” International Law Studies series that since 1901 has provided a forum for prominent legal scholars to publish articles that contribute to the broader understanding of international law. The Department also serves as Primary Review Authority for The Commander’s Handbook on the Law of Naval Operations (NWP 1-14M, MCWP 5-2.1, and COMDTPUB P5800.7). Members of the Department also serve as faculty for International Institute of Humanitarian Law courses on the law of armed conflict, the law of naval operations, and rules of engagement and as guest lecturers at various international law conferences.


Contact Information