Chinese Contemporary Perspectives on International Law

"Built on the theme of 'history, culture and international law', this special course gives a comprehensive review of China's contemporary perspective and practice of international law in the past sixty years since the founding of the People's Republic of China. China's modern history spanning from the first Opium War till the end of the Cold War has exerted strong impact on its attitude towards international law. From 'an opponent and a challenger' to the existing legal order, China in the recent thirty years has gradually integrated into the international legal system through its opening up and economic reform process. With its legal reconstruction at home and growing role in international affairs, China now attaches importance to the rule of law. To review this process, the author first revisits China's position on some fundamental issues and then selects a few areas of general interest: human rights, sustainable development, multilateralism and regional co-operation"--Unedited summary from book cover.