1. Critically assess¿the key principles and legal frameworks governing international migration and refugee protection, with a particular focus on the 1951 Refugee Convention, international human rights law, and regional instruments

Analysis; Knowledge and Understanding

2. Analyse¿the legal, social, and political challenges associated with forced migration, asylum-seeking, and refugee status determination, and evaluate the responses of states and international organizations to these challenges

Analysis

3. Examine¿the relationship between international migration law and human rights protections, and explore how these legal frameworks address the rights and responsibilities of migrants, refugees, and states in managing cross-border movements

Enquiry; Problem Solving

4. Evaluate¿the role of international organisations, such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), in global migration governance, and critically assess the effectiveness of international cooperation in addressing contemporary migration and refugee crises.

Reflection; Communication; Analysis; Knowledge and Understanding

Essay – Assessing Outcomes 1-4



Students will be able to demonstrate their critical thinking, analytical, and research skills, directly linking their work to the module's learning outcomes. This assessment will encourage students to apply legal theory to practical situations and reflect on the broader implications of migration law on global governance and human rights.

This module offers a comprehensive examination of the legal, political, and social dimensions of international migration and refugee law. It covers foundational legal frameworks, key principles, contemporary issues, and challenges facing states and international organizations. The content is designed to provide students with a critical understanding of migration governance and refugee protection, enabling them to apply this knowledge in both academic and practical contexts.



Topics covered include:



Introduction to International Migration and Refugee Law

The 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol

Regional Instruments and Protection Mechanisms

International Human Rights Law and Migration

Refugee Status Determination (RSD)

Non-Refoulement and the Right to Asylum

State Sovereignty vs. International Obligations

The Role of International Organisations and NGOs

Contemporary Issues in Migration and Refugee Law

Global Cooperation and the Future of Migration Law

Are you passionate about understanding global migration challenges and refugee protection? The¿International Migration and Refugee Law¿module offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the legal frameworks that govern the movement of people across borders. This module is ideal for those interested in human rights, global governance, and the protection of vulnerable populations displaced by conflict, persecution, and environmental disasters. Throughout the module, you will critically engage with key international instruments, such as the 1951 Refugee Convention, the Global Compact on Refugees, and regional agreements, to understand the rights and obligations of migrants, refugees, and states. You will explore contemporary issues such as the securitisation of borders, climate change-induced displacement, and the complex relationship between state sovereignty and international human rights law.



With case studies, real-world examples, and an examination of the role of international organisations like the UNHCR, this module equips you with the legal knowledge and practical skills to address today’s most pressing migration and refugee issues. Whether you’re aspiring to work in international organizations, NGOs, or policymaking, this module will provide you with the expertise to navigate the complex landscape of international migration law and contribute meaningfully to global solutions.

Access to appropriate primary and secondary legal resources via the library databases, such as: Westlaw; Lexis-Nexis; Practical Law Online; Law Trove; E-books and Journals
Computing facilities to access material available via Blackboard and the web.