New Developments in International Law

In: India quarterly: a journal of international affairs, Band 46, Heft 2-3, S. 134-170

Abstract

The fate of law is change. Change is the law of nature. Law goes on changing in accordance with the demands of society. International Law(Jus Gentium) does not form any exception to the above truth. The 20th Century has witnessed an ever-accelerating rhythm of change; the scientific and technological developments have unleashed political, economic, social and cultural forces which are transforming the society at an increasing rate.1 International Law has undergone complete changes after the two World Wars and it has revolutionised itscorpus during the current century. The whole of recorded history of International Law has been a process of revolution or at least of change, for, in no one era has mankind stood completely still.2 International Law has been changing with the facts of international life. Modern International Law has experienced new developments and trends. The new International Law, undoubtedly, has indicated the norms and rules that have evolved since the Second World War and more particularly since the creation of the United Nations. The new International Law has already manifested itself in the Charter of the United Nations. The United Nations Charter marked a significant step forward in the development of International Law. It marked the beginning of a new era in interstate relations. It was a sincere effort to restructure interstate relations with a view to achieving a new world order. It is because of the impact of the United Nations and of its specialized agencies, a number of significant developments have taken place in the field of International Law.