International Law Aspects of the EU's Security and Defence Policy, with a Particular Focus on the Law of Armed Conflict

This book combines an insight into the legal aspects of operations conducted as part of the European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP) of the EU along with an analysis of the status and obligations of international organizations under international law. It then applies the findings to the law of armed conflict and human rights in relation to ESDP operations. Part I describes and analyzes the ESDP, including all 22 military and civilian crisis management operations launched up to August 31, 2009, as well as developments under the Lisbon Treaty, and briefly discusses the international law issues raised, offering a unique insight into ESDP practice and its legal aspects. Part II examines this practice in the framework of the status and obligations of international organizations under international law. It looks at the legal status and personality of international organizations and of the EU, as well as how international organizations, including the EU, are bound by international obligati