University of Pécs – Faculty of Law
Programme Proposal
The University of Pécs, Faculty of Law, is pleased to offer a distance-learning educational programme for professionals who wish to specialise in international and European law and are already building their careers.
Next starting date: September 2026
Title of the programme: Master’s Programme in International and European Law
Duration of training: 3 semesters
Language of instruction: English
Start of the application period: 01 April 2026
Deadline of application: 31 May 2026
Next starting date: September 2026
Tuition fee per semester: 1500 EUR
Tuition fee per semester for EU students: same as above
Application fee: 100 EUR
Entrance exam fee: 100 EUR
Intake: Autumn
Program Overview
The "Master’s in International and European Law" is an innovative English-language distance learning program offered by the University of Pécs, Faculty of Law. This master's program addresses the growing international dimension of legal practice and the increasingly dominant role of International Law and European Union law in the legal employment market. The program reflects on these challenges and opportunities through a comprehensive and practice-oriented approach, enabling students to deepen their knowledge in both general and specialised areas of international and EU law, with particular attention to current developments in legal application.
Program Format and Structure
The three-semester Master’s is delivered exclusively through distance learning, combining asynchronous and synchronous elements. The predominantly asynchronous format provides students with the flexibility to study regardless of their geographical location and according to their own schedule. Students maintain continuous contact with instructors and peers through digital educational platforms and interactive learning materials while accessing up-to-date legal applications and theoretical questions.
The synchronous consultation sessions, on the other hand, allow students to consult with the lecturers and staff directly regarding any substantive or administrative questions. The curriculum incorporates foundational public law knowledge, international law expertise, European Union law expertise and a thesis, resulting in a well-rounded professional education.
Faculty and Educational Approach
Courses are taught by a combination of University of Pécs Law Faculty instructors and carefully selected domestic and international external educators with theoretical knowledge and practical experience in various fields of European and international law. The integration of international faculty ensures that students are exposed to multiple perspectives and diverse legal cultures, which is essential for a deeper understanding of the legal subject analysed in the programme. This multidisciplinary approach enhances graduates' labour market competitiveness and professional mobility opportunities in a significant way.
Professional Competencies and Career Opportunities
Graduates develop comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge of international law and EU law. The program develops critical analytical skills and prepares students for employment. These competencies position graduates excellently for careers in international organisations, non-governmental organisations, diplomatic service, global business environments, and European Union institutions.
Target Audience and Entry Requirements
The program is particularly beneficial for professionals already building their careers who wish to specialise in international and European law. The distance learning format accommodates those balancing educational advancement with professional commitments. Prospective students must have B2 level English language proficiency to allow participation in this exclusively English-language program.
Students who wish to apply need to possess a Bachelor's or Master's diploma in one of the following fields:
- Law
- International Relations
- Political Science
- Criminology
- Sociology
- European Union studies
The entrance exam is based on a point system and includes a professional interview.
Teaching Philosophy
The program emphasises developing theoretical knowledge and practical skills, fostering continuous professional development and general self-improvement. Students cultivate an openness to innovation and independent task performance while developing quality-oriented and precise work habits. The curriculum encourages cooperative professional relationships and commitment to organisational goals when working within international frameworks.
Planned curriculum
- Term 1 (28 ECTS)
- Public International Law 6ECTS
- Public Law of the European Union 6ECTS
- International Human Rights Law 6ECTS
- Law of International Organisations 6ECTS
- Multi-layered Constitutionalism and the Role of the States 4 ECTS
- Term 2 (32 ECTS)
- Law of Diplomatic and Consular Relations 8 ECTS
- Protection of Fundamental Rights in Europe: The Council of Europe and the EU 8 ECTS
- EU Internal Market Law 8 ECTS
- EU Justice- and Home Affairs Law 8 ECTS
- Term 3
- International and European Environmental Law* 6 ECTS
- International Business Law* 6 ECTS
- International and European Tax Law* 6 ECTS
- European Union Criminal Law* 6 ECTS
- Introduction to the Laws of War** 6 ECTS
- International Police Cooperation** 6 ECTS
- Master’s thesis 12 ECTS
* 2 courses must be completed from the list of compulsory elective courses.
** 1 course must be completed from the list of freely elective courses.
Course Description
Semester I
Course Title: Public International Law
Course Director: Dr Erzsébet Szalayné Sándor
Lecturers: Dr Bence Kis Kelemen, Dr Ágoston Csanád Mohay, Dr Erzsébet Szalayné Sándor
Theoretical knowledge to be acquired:
The system and characteristics of international law
The subjects of international law
International law-making and the sources of international law
The application of international law and its relationship to national law
Dispute resolution in international law by diplomatic and judicial means
The prohibition on the use of force and its consequences
The law of international responsibility: states and international organisations
Compulsory literature:
Jan Klabbers: International Law (4th ed.), Cambridge University Press, 2023, ISBN: 9781009304306
Sué González Hauck, Raffaela Kunz, Max Milas (eds.): Public International Law: A Multi-Perspective Approach, Routledge, 2024, ISBN: 9781032587448
Recommended literature:
Malcolm Shaw: International Law (9th ed.), Cambridge University Press, 2021, ISBN: 9781108477741
Emily Crawford, Alison Pert, Ben Saul: Public International Law, Cambridge University Press, 2023, ISBN: 9781009055888
Ratio of theory to practice:
Theoretical hours: 14
Practical hours: 0
Teaching methods applied:
Video lectures, directed readings, self-check questions
Method of assessment: Colloquium
Students will develop the ability to critically analyse and apply international law in solving complex legal problems. They will enhance their legal reasoning and interpretation skills, enabling them to identify connections between international and domestic legal frameworks and apply relevant legal norms. The course fosters independent analytical thinking in assessing international legal responsibility and the resolution of legal disputes at the global level. It also strengthens students’ legal comprehension, application, and problem-solving skills, equipping them with practical competencies for their future professional careers.
Course Title: Public Law of the European Union
Course Director: Dr Ágoston Csanád Mohay
Lecturers: Dr Ágoston Csanád Mohay, Dr Attila Pánovics, Dr István Szijártó
Theoretical knowledge to be acquired:
The constitutional characteristics of the European Union
The interplay of national and EU competences
Institutions and law-making in the EU
The autonomous legal order of the EU
Judicial review in EU law: direct and indirect actions
The EU as an external actor: the standard commercial policy and the common foreign and security policy
Compulsory literature:
Damian Chalmers, Gareth Davies, Giorgio Monti, Veerle Heyvaert: European Union Law (5th ed.), Oxford, 2024
Koen Lenaerts, Piet Van Nuffel: EU Constitutional Law, Oxford, 2021
Recommended literature:
Steve Peers, Catherine Barnard: European Union Law (4th ed.), Oxford, 2023, ISBN: 9780192863836
Robert Schütze: European Constitutional Law (3rd ed.), Cambridge, 2021, ISBN: 9781316503942
Ratio of theory to practice:
Theoretical hours: 14
Practical hours: 0
Teaching methods applied:
Video lectures, directed readings, self-check questions
Method of assessment: Colloquium
Students will acquire foundational knowledge of the constitutional principles of the European Union and understand the interaction between EU and national competences. They will be able to analyse the institutional and legislative framework of the EU, as well as the distinctive features of its autonomous legal order. Studying judicial review mechanisms, including direct and indirect actions, will enhance their legal reasoning and analytical skills. Students will be capable of evaluating the EU’s external activities, focusing on the common commercial, foreign and security policies.
Course Title: International Human Rights Law
Course Director: Dr Marija Daka
Lecturer: Dr Marija Daka
Theoretical knowledge to be acquired:
The system of human rights in international law
The historical development of human rights
The universal level of human rights protection
Regional human rights systems
Practical knowledge to be acquired:
The implementation of human rights obligations
The enforcement of human rights before international forums
The judicial enforcement of human rights
Compulsory literature:
Olivier De Schutter: International Human Rights Law, Cambridge University Press, 2019, ISBN: 1108463568
International Law Handbook – Collection of Instruments, United Nations, 2017 (Book One, Chapter VIII), available as: book_1.pdf
Recommended literature:
Philip Alston and Ryan Goodman: International Human Rights, Oxford University Press, 2012, ISBN: 9780199578726
Ilias Bantekas, Lutz Oette: International Human Rights Law and Practice, Cambridge University Press, 2024, ISBN: 9781009306379
Ratio of theory to practice:
Theoretical hours: 9
Practical hours: 5
Teaching methods applied:
Video lectures, directed readings, self-check questions
Method of assessment: Colloquium
The course enables students to understand the basic substantive and procedural mechanisms of human rights protection, understand the context of human rights, and apply the human rights normative system.
Course Title: Law of International Organisations
Course Director: Dr Erzsébet Szalayné Sándor
Lecturer: Dr Erzsébet Szalayné Sándor
Theoretical knowledge to be acquired:
The emergence of international organisations and their role in international relations
Characteristics and classification of international organisations – legal personality, membership, financing, dissolution
Internal structure and administration of international organisations
External relations of international organisations – participation in international law-making, responsibility
The role of regional international organisations and non-state actors in international relations
Practical knowledge to be acquired:
The United Nations – the central actor in international relations
International organisations in the service of peace and security
International organisations in the service of economic well-being
International organisations in the service of human rights
International organisations in the service of environmental protection
International humanitarian organisations
Compulsory literature:
Sué González Hauck, Raffaela Kunz, Max Milas (eds.): Public International Law: A Multi-Perspective Approach, Routledge, 2024, ISBN: 9781032587448 (Chapter)
Bak McKenna M.: Designing for International Law: The Architecture of International Organizations 1922–1952. Leiden Journal of International Law, 2021;34(1):1-22.
Anne Peters: International Organizations as Constitution-Shapers: Promoting or Undermining a Transnational Rule of Law? In: G. Shaffer, W. Sandholtz (eds.), The Rule of Law under Pressure: A Transnational Challenge. Cambridge University Press, 2025: 153–181.
Margaret P. Karns, Tana Johnson, Karen A. Mingst: International Organizations: The Politics and Processes of Global Governance (4th ed.), Lynne Rienner Publishers, 2023, ISBN: 9781685859800. Available at: https://www.rienner.com/uploads/655641fb4f4df.pdf
Recommended literature:
Ian Hurd: International Organisations – Politics, Law, Practice (5th ed.), Cambridge University Press, 2024, ISBN: 9781009414074
Jan Klabbers: An Introduction to International Organisations Law (4th ed.), Cambridge University Press, 2022, ISBN: 9781108842204
Ratio of theory to practice:
Theoretical hours: 10
Practical hours: 4
Teaching methods applied:
Video lectures, directed readings, self-check questions
Method of assessment: Colloquium
Students will develop the ability to analyse international organisations' characteristics and legal status. Their critical thinking skills will be enhanced by evaluating the functioning of international organisations and their external relations, with a particular focus on international law-making and responsibility. Students will be familiar with the international organisations operating in key areas of global politics. They will be able to assess, interpret, and evaluate the role of a given international organisation in specific situations. In addition to theoretical knowledge, they will refine their applied legal analysis skills, enabling them to examine the functioning and impact of international organisations in practice.
Course Title: Multi-layered Constitutionalism and the Role of the States
Course Director: Dr Gábor Mészáros
Lecturers: Dr Gábor Mészáros
Theoretical knowledge to be acquired:
Multi-layered Constitutionalism and Supranational Constitutional Actors
Limitations on Constitutional Sovereignty
Recent Questions on Global Constitutionalism
Transnationalization and Migration of Constitutional Interpretation
A Return of Sovereignty? – The Limits of Multilevel Constitutionalism
Practical knowledge to be acquired:
Responding to Challenges of Multi-layered Constitutionalism: ’Dialogue of Courts’
Negotiating Function of the European Court of Human Rights and the EU Court of Justice
Constitutional Adjudication in the European Legal Space
Compulsory literature:
András Sajó and Renáta Uitz (eds.): The Constitution of Freedom – An Introduction to Legal Constitutionalism, Oxford University Press, 2017, ISBN 9780198732174, ch. 12.
Michel Rosenfeld and András Sajó (eds.): The Oxford Handbook of Comparative Constitutional Law, Oxford University Press, 2012, ISBN 9780199689286, ch. 2, 5, 9.
Roger Masterman and Robert Schütze (eds.): The Cambridge Companion to Comparative Constitutional Law, Cambridge University Press, 2019, ISBN 9781316716731, ch. 5.
Recommended literature:
Armin von Bogdandy, Peter M Huber and Christoph Grabenwarter (eds.): The Max Planck Handbooks in European Public Law Volume IV: Constitutional Adjudication: Common Themes and Challenges, Oxford University Press, 2023, ISBN 9780192846693
Zoltán Szente and Fruzsina Gárdos-Orosz (eds.): New Challenges to Constitutional Adjudication in Europe – A Comparative Perspective, Routledge, 2018, ISBN 9781138057890
Ratio of theory to practice:
Theoretical hours: 9
Practical hours: 3
Teaching methods applied:
Video lectures, analysis of relevant legal cases, and reading assignments
Method of assessment: Colloquium
The course focuses on structural issues of national constitutions and international constitutionalism. Students will be able to interpret constitutional law, global constitutionalism, understand the issue of sovereignty and multi-level constitutionalism, and the migration of constitutional ideas.
Semester II
Course Title: Law of Diplomatic and Consular Relations
Course Director: Dr Endre Domaniczky
Lecturer: Dr Endre Domaniczky
Theoretical knowledge to be acquired:
The History of Diplomacy
The History of Consular Activity
The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961): system and main institutions)
The Vienna Convention on Consular Relations (1963): system and main institutions
Immunities and privileges in diplomatic law
Practical knowledge to be acquired:
The application of the Vienna Conventions in practice
Implementation of relevant international agreements in the national law
Foreign missions and their staff
Immunities and privileges in practice
Main features of consular work in practice
Compulsory literature:
Luke T. Lee – John Quigley: Consular Law and Practice (3rd ed.), Oxford University Press, 2008, ISBN: 9780198298519
Eileen Denza: Diplomatic Law: Commentary on the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (4th ed.), Oxford University Press, 2016, ISBN: 9780191773198
Recommended literature:
Bába, Iván – Sáringer, János (eds.): An Encyclopaedia of Diplomacy I-II. (Bp., Kairosz, 2021)
Henry Kissinger: Diplomacy (Simon & Schuster, New York, 1994)
Kissinger, Henry: World Order (New York: Penguin, 2014)
Ratio of theory to practice:
Theoretical hours: 9
Practical hours: 5
Teaching methods applied:
Video lectures, directed readings, self-check questions
Method of assessment: Colloquium
Students will acquire comprehensive knowledge of the historical development of diplomacy and consular activity and the relevant international treaties. They will be able to analyse and interpret the provisions of the Vienna Conventions on Diplomatic and Consular Relations, as well as their practical application. Students will understand the system of diplomatic and consular immunities and privileges, as well as their role in international relations and legal practice.
They will enhance their ability to analyse the implementation of specific international agreements in national legal systems, focusing on the operation of foreign missions. Students will be able to assess the characteristics of diplomatic and consular work based on practical examples and case studies and draw independent conclusions regarding the application of relevant legal regulations.
Course Title: Protection of Fundamental Rights in Europe: The Council of Europe and the EU
Course Director: Dr Erzsébet Szalayné Sándor
Lecturers: Dr Erzsébet Szalayné Sándor, Dr Marija Daka, Dr Bence Kis Kelemen
Theoretical knowledge to be acquired:
Introduction: The place of European fundamental rights protection in the international system of human rights – principles, achievements and challenges
Normative and institutional frameworks of European fundamental rights protection – within the framework of the Council of Europe and the European Union: sources of law, monitoring and levels of jurisdiction
The European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) – the legal interpretation practice of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR)
Sources of EU fundamental rights protection – the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights and general legal principles – the practice of the Court of Justice of the EU (CJEU)
The dual nature of European fundamental rights protection – the EU’s accession to the ECHR
Practical knowledge to be acquired:
Analysis of selected cases from the ECtHR's case law on Articles 1-7 of the ECHR
Analysis of selected cases from the ECtHR's case law on Articles 8-14 of the ECHR
Analysis of selected cases from the ECJ's case law on fundamental rights I.
Analysis of selected cases from the ECJ's case law on fundamental rights II.
Analysis of selected cases from the ECJ's case law on EU law
Compulsory literature:
Public International Law: a multi-perspective approach / edited by Sué González Hauck, Raffaela Kunz, and Max Milas. Abingdon, Oxon [UK]; New York, NY: Routledge, 2024., Chapter 21: International Human Rights Law (531-614. o.)
Bosko Tripkovic, Alain Zysset, Uncovering the Nature of ECHR Rights: An Analytical and Methodological Framework, Human Rights Law Review, Volume 24, Issue 1, March 2024
Steven Wheatley, Interpreting the ECHR in Light of the Increasingly High Standards Being Required by Human Rights: Insights from Social Ontology, Human Rights Law Review, Volume 24, Issue 1, March 2024
Letsas, George, The ECHR as a Living Instrument: Its Meaning and its Legitimacy (March 14, 2012). https://ssrn.com/abstract=2021836
Recommended literature:
Fink M, ed. Redressing Fundamental Rights Violations by the EU: The Promise of the ‘Complete System of Remedies’. Cambridge University Press; 2024.
Schmahl, Stefanie, and Marten Breuer (eds), The Council of Europe: Its Law and Policies (2017; online edn, Oxford Academic), https://doi.org/10.1093/law/9780199672523.001.0001
De Burca, Grainne, The EU, the European Court of Justice and the International Legal Order after Kadi. Harvard International Law Journal, Vol. 1, No. 51, 2009
Corina Heri, Deference, Dignity and ‘Theoretical Crisis’: Justifying ECtHR Rights Between Prudence and Protection, Human Rights Law Review, Volume 24, Issue 1, March 2024
Lenaerts K. Limits on Limitations: The Essence of Fundamental Rights in the EU. German Law Journal. 2019;20(6):779-793.
Greer S, Gerards J, Slowe R. Human Rights in the Council of Europe and the European Union: Achievements, Trends and Challenges. Cambridge University Press; 2018
Mohay Ágoston, Once more unto the breach? The resumption of negotiations on the EU’s accession to the ECHR. Pécs Journal of International and European Law No. I (2021)
Ratio of theory to practice:
Theoretical hours: 9
Practical hours: 5
Teaching methods applied:
Video lectures, directed readings, self-check questions
Method of assessment: Colloquium
With the help of this subject, students of the course will be able to understand the multi-layered levels of European fundamental rights protection, recognise their connections, explore and critically assess specific problems. At the same time, they will be able to objectively evaluate and analyse specific fundamental rights situations that demonstrate national-regional/international-EU complexity.
Course Title: EU Internal Market Law
Course Director: Dr Cherry James
Lecturers: Dr Cherry James, John Koo
Theoretical knowledge to be acquired:
Introduction: what is the EU internal market?
The EU legal framework relating to the free movement of goods
The EU legal framework relating to the free movement of persons
The EU legal framework relating to the free movement of services
The EU legal framework relating to the free movement of capital
Political considerations relating to the EU internal market
Practical knowledge to be acquired:
Applying, implementing and enforcing the law relating to EU free movement of goods, using case studies and/or relevant scenarios.
Applying, implementing, and enforcing the law relating to EU free movement of persons, using case studies and/or relevant scenarios.
The application, implementation and enforcement of the law relating to EU free movement of services, using case studies and/or relevant scenarios.)
Applying, implementing and enforcing the law relating to EU free movement of capital, using case studies and/or relevant scenarios.
Compulsory literature:
Damian Chalmers, European Union Law, 2024, ISBN: 9781009230322
Paul Craig and Gráinne de Burca, EU law: Text, Cases and Materials, 2024, 9780198915522
Recommended literature:
Catherine Barnard, The Substantive Law of the EU: The Four Freedoms, 2022, ISBN 9780192857880
Stephen Weatherill, Law and Values in the European Union, 2016, ISBN 9780199557271
Ratio of theory to practice:
Theoretical hours: 10
Practical hours: 4
Teaching methods applied:
Video lectures, directed readings, self-check questions
Method of assessment: Colloquium
Students will learn the operational foundation of the EU internal market. They will be required to identify, read, and analyse relevant primary and secondary law and to apply it to factual situations. In so doing, they will develop their self-learning capacity and become autonomous learners.
Course Title: EU Justice and Home Affairs Law
Course Director: Dr Ágoston Mohay
Lecturers: Dr Ágoston Mohay, Dr István Szijártó
Theoretical knowledge to be acquired:
The evolution of Justice and Home Affairs Cooperation in the European Union. The Area of Freedom, Security and Justice (AFSJ)
The regulation of visas and border control in the EU
Migration law of the EU: regulating legal and illegal migration
Asylum law of the EU
Cooperation in criminal matters and combating terrorism in the EU
The Protection of Fundamental Rights in the AFSJ
Practical knowledge to be acquired:
The relevance of case law in the AFSJ as demonstrated by the following case-law examples:
1. M.S.S. v. Belgium & Greece, App. no. 30696/09
2. Case C-410/11 NS & ME
3. A.D. v. GREECE, App. no. 55363/19
4. Case C-404/15 and C-659/15 PPU Aranyosi & Caldararu
Compulsory literature:
Steve Peers: EU Justice and Home Affairs Law (5th ed.), Oxford, 2023, ISBN: 9780198890256
Maria Fletcher, Ester Herlin-Karnell, Claudio Matera: The European Union as an Area of Freedom, Security and Justice, Routledge, 2017, ISBN 9780367193454
Recommended literature:
Vincent Chetail, Philippe De Bruycker and Francesco Maiani: Reforming the Common European Asylum System Reforming the Common European Asylum System, Brill, 2016, ISBN: 9789004308657
Valsamis Mitsilegas: EU Criminal Law, Hart, 2022, ISBN: 9781509904167
Ratio of theory to practice:
Theoretical hours: 9
Practical hours: 5
Teaching methods applied:
Video lectures, directed readings, self-check questions
Method of assessment: Colloquium
Students will learn to analyse and evaluate the law of the EU’s Area of Freedom, Security and Justice. They will gather knowledge on EU treaty law and the EU’s relevant secondary acts pertaining to justice and home affairs cooperation in the EU, focusing on the current legal framework and prevalent legal challenges. They will further learn to understand and draw conclusions from the relevant case law of the Court of Justice of the EU.
Semester III
Course Title: International and European Environmental Law
Course Director: Dr Attila Pánovics
Lecturers: Dr Attila Pánovics
Theoretical knowledge to be acquired:
The Role of Law in the Protection of the Environment
The Development and Effectiveness of Environmental Law
The Environmental Obligations of States
EU Environmental Policy and Law
Environmental Responsibility and Liability
Practical knowledge to be acquired:
Dispute Settlement in Environmental Matters
Compliance Procedures
The Enforcement of the Polluter Pays Principle
Right to Environment
Sustainable Finance
Compulsory literature:
Stuart Bell – Donald McGillivray – Ole Pedersen – Emma Lees – Elen Stokes: Environmental Law (Tenth Edition), Oxford University Press, 2024, ISBN: 9780192847690
J.H. Jans – H.H.B. Vedder: European Environmental Law (5th edition), Treaty-Based Law, Europa Law Publishing, 2024, ISBN: 9789462513341
Alan Boyle – Catherine Redgwell: Birnie, Boyle, and Redgwell's International Law and the Environment (Fourth Edition), Oxford University Press, 2021, ISBN: 9789462513341
Recommended literature:
Ludwig Krämer – Christopher Badger: Krämer’s EU Environmental Law (Ninth Edition), Hart Publishing, 2024, ISBN: 9781509974443
Stefan E. Weishaar – Kars J. de Graaf (eds.): The Future of Environmental Law – Ambition and Reality, Edward Elgar Publishing, 2024, ISBN: 9781035314638
Daniel Bodansky – Harro van Asselt: The Art and Craft of International Environmental Law (Second Edition), Oxford University Press, 2024, ISBN: 9780199594016
Ratio of theory to practice:
Theoretical hours: 9
Practical hours: 5
Teaching methods applied:
Video lectures, self-check questions
Method of assessment: Colloquium
The course introduces students to the possibilities of reducing the factors limiting effective environmental regulation and the system of relationships between various (international and EU-level) regulatory instruments. It enables them to select and effectively apply the legal instruments necessary to resolve environmental conflicts.
Course Title: International Business Law
Course Director: Dr Zsolt Bujtár
Lecturers: Dr Zsolt Bujtár, Dr Barnabás Ferencz
Theoretical knowledge to be acquired:
Challenges arising from the differences in legal systems
Sources of law in international economic relations: lex mercatoria
The main institutions of international commerce
Foreign Direct Investment and its regulation
International trade finance
Ethics in international business law
Practical knowledge to be acquired:
The main instruments and techniques used in international trade
Contracting in international commerce
Risk management in international transactions
Foreign investments and investment protection
International trade finance tools - documentary transactions, letter of credit, bank guarantee
National import export regulation, free trade agreements, trade war
Compulsory literature:
DiMatteo, L. A. (2021). International business law and the legal environment: a transactional approach (Fourth edition). Routledge. ISBN 9780367477370
Wang, Z. J., & Chen, J. (2023). International trade regulation: evolving dynamics and shifting foundations. Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003275510
Recommended literature:
Herdegen, M. (2016). Principles of international economic law (Second edition). Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780198790563
McMillan, R. E. (2022). Investor-state dispute settlement: back to the basics. Wake Forest Journal of Business and Intellectual Property Law, 22(3), 399-427.
Ratio of theory to practice:
Theoretical hours: 9
Practical hours: 5
Teaching methods applied:
Video lectures, self-check questions, and project teamwork
Method of assessment: Colloquium
Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to present the institutions and regulatory system of international trade, argue professionally for their own position in the context of a global trade transaction, and present their legal case solution in a multimedia presentation prepared in a team.
Course Title: International and European Tax Law
Course Director: Dr Alexander Szívós
Lecturers: Dr Alexander Szívós
Theoretical knowledge to be acquired:
The basics of taxation
The interaction between the European Union and the Member States' tax laws
The fundamentals of international taxation
International tax planning
Fighting against tax evasion on an international level
Practical knowledge to be acquired:
Tax planning in practice
International taxation case law
ECJ case law on direct taxes
ECJ case law on indirect taxes
Summary
Compulsory literature:
OECD: International Tax Avoidance and Evasion: Four Related Studies, Issues in International Taxation, No. 1, OECD Publishing, Paris, 1987. https://doi.org/10.1787/g2ghgbf6-en.
Emmanuel Saez, Gabriel Zucman: The Triumph of Injustice: How the Rich Dodge Taxes and How to Make Them Pay. W. W. Norton & Company, 2019. ISBN: 978-1324002727
Case law of the ECJ: https://curia.europa.eu/jcms/jcms/P_106308/hu/
Recommended literature:
IBFD: European Tax Handbook 2024.
Nexia International: The International Tax Handbook, 6th edition, Bloomsbury Professional, 2017.
http://iberglobal.com/files/20172/International_Tax_Handbook.pdf
Kirill A. Tasalov, Svetlana G. Sokolova, Dina M. Osina: Countering the Corporate Tax Avoidance in the Court of Justice of the European Union Practice. Law Enforcement Review 2021, vol. 5, no. 3, pp. 178–194
Ratio of theory to practice:
Theoretical hours: 9
Practical hours: 5
Teaching methods applied:
Video lectures, self-check questions
Method of assessment: Colloquium
The course enables the student to interpret the European and international tax law environment and understand the connections between international, European Union, and Member State tax issues. It provides an insight into the methods of legal tax planning, tax optimisation and the global conditions for tax compliance.
Course Title: European Union Criminal Law
Course Director: Dr Dávid Tóth
Lecturers: Dr Dávid Tóth, Dr István Szijártó
Theoretical knowledge to be acquired:
The definition of European criminal law and its status in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice
Criminal law harmonisation in the European Union
The principle of mutual recognition in European criminal law
The institutional framework of European criminal law: Europol, OLAF, Eurojust, and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office
Jurisdictional issues in European Criminal Law: competences and conflicts
Instruments of European criminal cooperation: mutual legal assistance measures, European Arrest Warrant, and European Investigation Order
Practical knowledge to be acquired:
The protection of fundamental rights in European criminal law: the ECHR, the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, and the ECJ’s case law in connection with judicial cooperation in criminal matters
European criminal cooperation in practice: case studies and legal challenges
Eurocrimes I – organised crime and human trafficking
Eurocrimes II – financial and technological crimes: corruption, money laundering, counterfeiting, and cybercrime
Compulsory literature:
Jacob Öberg: The Normative Foundations for EU Criminal Justice: Powers, Limits and Justifications, Hart Publishing, 2024, ISBN 978-1-50996-233-4 (print), 978-1-50996-235-8 (ePDF), 978-1-50996-234-1
Libor Klimek: Mutual Recognition of Judicial Decisions in European Criminal Law, Springer International Publishing, 2017, ISBN 978-3-319-44375-1 (print), 978-3-319-44377-5 (eBook).
Auke Willems: The Impact on National Sovereignty of Mutual Recognition in the AFSJ: Case-Study of the European Arrest Warrant, German Law Journal, Vol. 22, Issue 1, 2021, pp. 45–64.
Leandro Mancano: What About Fundamental Rights? Security and Fundamental Rights in EU Criminal Law, New Journal of European Criminal Law, Vol. 13, Issue 4, 2022, pp. 498–515.
Recommended literature:
Annika Suominen: What Role for Legal Certainty in Criminal Law Within the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice in the EU? Bergen Journal of Criminal Law and Criminal Justice, Vol. 2, Issue 1, 2014, pp. 1–31..
Athina Giannakoula: Cross-Border Access to Electronic Evidence in Criminal Matters, New Journal of European Criminal Law, Vol. 15, Issue 1, 2024, pp. 112–130.
Merita Kettunen: Legitimizing European Criminal Law, Springer International Publishing, 2019, ISBN 978-3-030-16173-6 (print), 978-3-030-16174-3 (eBook)..
Tommaso Rafaraci & Rosanna Belfiore (Eds.): EU Criminal Justice: Fundamental Rights, Transnational Proceedings and the European Public Prosecutor's Office, Springer International Publishing, 2019, ISBN 978-3-319-97318-0 (print), 978-3-319-97319-7 (eBook).
Ratio of theory to practice:
Theoretical hours: 10
Practical hours: 4
Teaching methods applied:
Video lectures, self-check questions, case studies and group legal analyses.
Method of assessment: Colloquium
The course contributes to developing students' legal analytical skills, as it provides comprehensive knowledge of the principles, institutions and instruments of European criminal law and criminal cooperation. Through theoretical and practical training, students will be able to critically analyse legislation and case law, with particular attention to the functioning of the European arrest warrant, legal assistance and cross-border investigations. The knowledge acquired during the course will help students understand the relationship between European criminal law and the Member States' legal systems, as well as their practical application in the field of international law enforcement.
Course Title: Introduction to the Laws of War
Course Director: Dr Bence Kis Kelemen
Lecturers: Dr Bence Kis Kelemen
Theoretical knowledge to be acquired:
War in International Relations
Development of the legal régime of the prohibition on the use of force
Theoretical background of the system of the prohibition on the use of force
Development of the field of international humanitarian law
Theoretical background of international humanitarian law
Development of the field of international criminal law
Theoretical background of international criminal law
Practical knowledge to be acquired:
Practical applicability of the exceptions of the prohibition on the use of force
Practical applicability of the general principles of international humanitarian law
Case law of international criminal law
Compulsory literature:
Stuart Casey-Maslen: Jus ad Bellum – The Law on Inter-State Use of Force. Hart, 2020. ISBN: 978-1-50993-09-2
Yoram Dinstein: The Conduct of Hostilities under the Law of International Armed Conflict. Cambridge University Press, 2016. ISBN: 9781316389591
Robert Cryer – Darryl Robinson – Sergey Vasiliev: An Introduction to International Criminal Law and Procedure. Cambridge University Press, 2019, ISBN: 9781108680455
Recommended literature:
Yoram Dinstein: War, Agression, and Self-Defence. Cambridge University Press, 2017, ISBN: 978-1-107-19114-3
Yoram Dinstein: Non-International Armed Conflicts in International Law. Cambridge University Press, 2021. ISBN: 9781108864091
Ratio of theory to practice:
Theoretical hours: 11
Practical hours: 3
Teaching methods applied:
Video lectures, directed readings, self-check questions
Method of assessment: Colloquium
Upon completing the course, the student will have knowledge of the international legal framework applicable to armed conflicts. They will be able to identify international legal issues related to armed conflicts. They will be capable of objectively evaluating and analysing the problems identified. Additionally, they can propose legal solutions to emerging practical matters.
Course Title: International Police Cooperation
Course Director: Dr Jorn van Rij
Lecturers: Dr Jorn van Rij
Theoretical knowledge to be acquired:
Policing transnational organised crime in modern states
Theoretical and legal basis of international police cooperation
The legal framework of Europol
The legal framework of Interpol
The legal framework of Frontex
Practical knowledge to be acquired:
Policing in practice: case study THB LOTUS Europol
New perspectives: Cooperation on Preventive programs
The work of a police liaison officer - OC drug trafficking in the Balkans
Fundamental rights, privacy and security issues: pushbacks by Frontex
Data sharing, intelligence and technology in police cooperation
Compulsory literature:
G. Šetka & P. Đukić, The Police System Of A Modern State, In: Security Science Journal, Vol. 5, No. 3/2024, Pp. 136 - 152
K. Tryfon, International Law Enforcement Cooperation In: European Scientific Journal, No. 10/2014, Pp. 355 - 367
T. Jakabovič, Theoretical And Legal Basis Of International Police Cooperation, In: Proceedings Of Security Forum 2022, 15th Annual International Scientific Conference, Pp. 60 – 70
V. Terziev, M. Petkov & D. Krastev, Operative Mode For Police Cooperation Between The Member States Of The European Union, In: Proceedings Of Socioint 2018- 5th International Conference On Education, Social Sciences And Humanities, Pp. 473 - 476
Recommended literature:
M. Barnett & L. Coleman, Designing Police: Interpol And The Study Of Change In International Organizations, In: International Studies Quarterly No. 49/2005, pp. 593 – 619
M. Busuioc & M. Groenleer, Beyond Design: The Evolution Of Europol And Eurojust, In: Amsterdam Centre For European Law And Governance Working Paper No. 03/2011, pp. 3 – 33
G. Calcara, Balancing International Police Cooperation: Interpol
And The Undesirable Trade Off Between Rights Of Individuals And Global Security, In: Liverpool Law Review No. 42/2021, pp. 111 – 142
G. Calcara, Rethinking Legal Research on Matters of International Police Cooperation: Issues, Methods And Raison D’être, In: Liverpool Law Review No. 40/2019, Pp. 95 – 111
Ratio of theory to practice:
Theoretical hours: 9
Practical hours: 5
Teaching methods applied:
Video lectures, directed readings, self-check questions
Method of assessment: Colloquium
International police cooperation will be examined from a European and international (legal) perspective, explaining the treaties and articles providing a legal basis for police cooperation beyond national limitations. As Serious Organised Crime does not stop at State Borders, International Police Cooperation is needed to secure safety and an effective and successful way to fight crime, not overlooking future challenges. To show how this works in practice, the course will be divided into a theoretical section and a practical section, consisting of case study examples highlighting the possibilities and successes of International Police Cooperation, but at the same time, address legal and practical limitations and difficulties. It will also discuss new methods of policing and fighting (organised) crime, which combines the international and the local elements of crime.
