This book provides a comprehensive analysis of the content, scope, and function of due diligence across various areas of international law. Looking at current tendancies towards proceduralisation and more proactive risk management, it reveals the promises and limits of due diligence as a concept for enhancing accountability and compliance.

This work is based on long-term research into State practice combined with the development of a theoretical foundation of such practice, which explains the behaviour of states as subject to clear legal restraints. It argues that state practice is not compatible with traditional concepts of international law and that a fresh approach is required.

The legal nature of international law is continually called into question. In providing pieces of the answer, the law of state responsibility occupies a central place in international law. The articles selected here represent significant and influential analyses of this area of law.

Source documents organized under the headings: Organic acts, United Nations, Human rights, Economic matters, Law of treaties, Diplomatic relations, Law of the sea, Airspace and outer space, Extradition, Terrorism, Rights and duties of states, Sovereign immunity, Environment, Dispute resolution, peace keeping & peace making; Force & war, International practice

Focusing on damage affecting the seas--tank spills, for example, or the dumping of wastes--this book seeks to identify and illustrate a set of international legal rules for determining if and when a country should be held responsible for environmental harm.