ILJ Mission Statement

ave maria school of law

The Ave Maria School of Law International Law Journal is dedicated to the research and publication of articles that address issues in international law, from a natural law perspective. Ever mindful of international law's foundational concept of jus cogens, and recognizing the Catholic Church's contribution to its development, the Ave Maria School of Law International Law Journal endeavors to continue the contribution of the Catholic Intellectual Tradition in the development of International Law.

It is impossible to separate International Law from the Judeo-Christian viewpoint upon which it was drawn. From the Augustinian origins of the just war theory, to the development of modern diplomacy, Catholic spiritual, intellectual, and philosophical thought has influenced its development. It is the goal of the Ave Maria School of Law International Law Journal to further the influence of Christian thought on issues currently facing the International legal bodies, non-government organizations, and organizations. To achieve this goal the journal will:

Promote high quality legal scholarship in areas of International Law dealing with issues where Catholic thought can provide insight into meeting the needs of the international community. In doing so, the journal is an outlet for scholars from around the world to publish articles on a variety of issues of International Law.

Further the development of the research, writing, and technical skills of its student editors and staff, through an integration of faculty and student projects. Through this, students and faculty will have an opportunity to work together, furthering the ability for students to work with faculty on a closer basis.

Create and maintain a dialogue with the international community on various issues in international law, faithfully representing the Catholic thought on those issues.