INTERNATIONAL LAW, ADVANCED TOPICS: INTERNATIONAL LAW IN DEVELOPING NATIONS (2) (ILS216)

Explores the unique legal issues raised by the challenge of improving the economic prospects of developing nations. Examines the concepts of development, underdevelopment, and developing countries, and how they have changed over the last several decades. Also emphasizes how major changes in development policy and development theory have been reflected in law reform within developing countries and in conflicts over the place of developing countries within the international legal system. Explores several selected problems of domestic and international law relating to developing countries including: land reform laws, agricultural policy and rural to urban migration; gender equality, human rights and development; regulation, deregulation and privatization of local enterprises; foreign investment codes, enterprise zones and joint ventures; the role of international financial institutions, foundations and non-governmental organizations; and the special problems of developing countries in the context of free trade and the World Trade Organization. Although examples are drawn from several developing countries, the course focuses on South Africa and the Peoples Republic of China. Especially useful for students interested in development policy or in careers that involve transactions or investments in developing countries. Requires a graded research paper.