International Investment Law (ILO-L232)

Fall 2026 · ILO L232 · Tufts University · 3 credits · Undergraduate

This course offers an advanced introduction to the law of foreign investment, one of the most dynamic and yet contested areas of international law. It provides an overview of domestic and international law mechanisms for the protection of foreign capital, as well as the emerging network of soft law instruments relevant for foreign investment. The focal point of the course lies in the law of investment treaties. Students will become familiar with the notions of “investment” and “investor”, substantive standards of investment protection (e.g. the guarantee of a “fair and equitable treatment” and protection against expropriation), and legal devices striking a balance between the interests of foreign investors and the public interest (e.g. environmental and national security exceptions). The course draws particular attention to the settlement of investment disputes. It addresses key concepts of investor-State arbitration, such as jurisdiction of investment tribunals, admissibility of claims, applicable law, stages of the proceedings, and recognition and enforcement of arbitral awards. The final part of the course is devoted to the movements of reform and change in international investment law. Students will engage in ongoing debates about the future of international investment law and discuss competing reform agendas from both the global south and the global north.

Course codes: ILO-L232

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