Question

Which one of the following is relatively the most important source of International Law?

• A. Judicial Decision
• B. Treaties
• C. Custom
• D. The general principles of Law

Hint:

Treaties are increasingly used to codify even the existing customary international laws, making them the most reliable source for international litigation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: International law lacks a central legislative body, so the sources are primarily derived from the consensus and state practice. The Statute of the International Court of Justice (Article 38) serves as the primary reference for these sources.

Step 1: Evaluating the sources of International Law.
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Treaties (Conventions): These are formal, written agreements between nations that create clear, binding obligations.
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Customary Law: Practices followed by states out of a sense of legal obligation.
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General Principles: Common concepts of law recognized by civilized nations.

Step 2: Prioritizing the importance of sources.
While 'Custom' was traditionally the primary source, modern international law has shifted heavily towards 'Treaties' as the most precise, widely accepted, and enforceable method of creating international obligations. equation Dominant Source of International Law = Treaties equation center Treaties center