In my paper, “Can International Law Really Be Classified as Law? Why or Why Not?” I delve into the legitimacy of International law through the lens of Hans Kelsen’s pure theory of law. This analysis addresses whether International law fulfils the essential elements of a legal system: Grundnorm (basic norm), hierarchical norms, the creation of new laws, and enforcement mechanisms.
I explore how International law upholds these principles by examining its foundational norms, structured hierarchy, evolution through human rights and transitional justice, and its enforcement via international tribunals. This paper challenges traditional perspectives and offers new insights into the nature and structure of international law, affirming its place as a true legal system.