What are customary international law and the sources of international law?

Customary international law (CIL) is a set of rules that have been accepted by all nations as an obligation of how to conduct themselves or act on the international stage. It is based on the belief that over time, certain customs have been practiced by nations, and those that persist are accepted as international law. CIL is one of two primary sources of international law recognized by nations, the other being treaties. Treaties are binding agreements between two or more nations. This type of international law is written down and formally signed by the parties involved. Once a treaty is signed, the parties are obligated to follow its terms. Some treaties are also accompanied by additional documents, such as protocols, which are additional agreements between the states. Other sources of international law include decisions of international tribunals, such as the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, and customary international law. Customary international law is made up of a series of principles or rules accepted and understood by all states to be binding. These are based on an existing custom or practice that has been accepted over a long period of time. Customary international law also includes conventions, which are formal agreements between states. In South Carolina, although the state operates under a sovereign jurisdiction, its laws must comply with international law. South Carolina is a member of the United Nations and the World Trade Organization, which have both created rules and principles that are accepted as international law. Additionally, the state must abide by any treaties it has signed with other countries and any obligations it has assumed under international customary law.

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What are customary international law and the sources of international law?

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