What is international law?

International law is a body of laws that governs the relations between countries and states, as well as between international organizations like the United Nations. It is a set of rules that are binding upon all nations, regardless of their size or economic wealth. This includes the rules of war, the rights of sovereign nations, and international trade and maritime regulations. International law is usually created through treaties and other forms of agreements between states. These agreements are often referred to as "customary international law," as they are based on shared principles of morality and fairness. International conventions are also sometimes used to supplement these laws. In South Carolina, the state Supreme Court is responsible for interpreting and applying international law. International agreements ratified by the United States are binding on the state just as if it were part of the U.S. Constitution. In addition, state statutes sometimes rely on international law to provide guidance on how to handle particular areas of the law. International law has become increasingly important in recent years, particularly as the world has become more integrated. International law allows nations and states to cooperate on a global scale, as well as ensure compliance with fundamental human rights standards. As more countries become members of the international community, the need for international law becomes ever more pressing.

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