International Wildlife Law (951-S2)

Visiting Professor David Cassuto
Two-Week Intensive: July 26 - August 8, 2011
Tentatively 9:00 am - 11:50 am
2 credit hours

International Wildlife Law will explore the connections and tensions between international and national interests in wildlife protection.  We will look at some of the major international treaties (including those protecting endangered species, whales, and migratory birds)  as well as some of the tensions between international norms and domestic practices.  In addition we will critically examine the term “sustainable use,” looking at the embedded tensions between human needs and desires and the protection of wildlife and wildlife habitat.  By class’s end, students will have gained insight into the complex issues underlying international wildlife law and the delicate balancing of competing interests that it requires. Students will also have experience applying and interpreting major treaties and laws, as well as a heightened sensitivity to the myriad pressures that go into their writing and ratification.