This book looks at the challenges and contemporary issues raised by human rights in the island countries of the South West Pacific which have come under the influence of the common law – where the legal systems are complex and perceptions of rights varies widely. Drawing on a wide range of resources to present a contemporary and evolving picture of human rights in the island states of the South Pacific region, the book considers the human rights aspects of constitutions, legal institutions and structures, social organisation, culture and custom, tradition and change. The materials provide legal, historical, political, social and cultural insights into the lived experience of human rights in the region supported by illustrative material from case-law, media reports, and policy documents. The book also locates the human rights concerns of Pacific islanders firmly within the wider theoretical and international domain while at the same time maintaining focus on the importance of the unique identity of Pacific island nations and people. Human Rights in the South Pacific will appeal to anyone interested in the region or in human rights including international rights advocates, investors and developers, policy-makers, representatives of government and civic society and those wishing to acquire a better understanding of what countries emerging from colonial rule face in developing but still retaining their identity.

This book looks at the challenges and contemporary issues raised by human rights in the island countries of the South West Pacific which have come under the influence of common law. The main topic interacts with a range of others such as constitutions, legal institutions and structures, social organization, culture and custom, tradition and change, especially in the Pacific region where the legal systems are complex and perceptions of what rights are or should be varies widely.

Simultaneously published in the USA and Canada.

Is there universalism of human rights? If so, what are its scope and limits? This book is a doctrinal attempt to define universalism of human rights, as well as its scope and limits. The book presents tests of universalism on international, regional and national constitutional levels. It is maintained that universalism of human rights is both a ‘concept’ and a ‘normative reality’. The normative character of human rights is scrutinized through the study of international and regional agreements as well as national constitutions. As a consequence, limitations of normativity are identified, usually on the international level, and take the form of exceptions, reservations, and interpretations. The book is based on the General and National Reports which were originally presented at the 18th International Congress of the International Academy of Comparative Law in Washington D.C. 2010.

Explores the meaning of culture, identity and community in a Pacific context.

International Law: A Textbook for the South Pacific is an introductory textbook for students and practitioners of international law. It provides a concise and clear introduction to the subject from the perspective of the South Pacific. This textbook takes advantage of Professor Olowu's unique experience as a lawyer trained at universities in Africa, North America and Europe, and having taught international law in the South Pacific. Few academics can claim his breadth and depth of expertise concerning in international law in diverse geographical and cultural contexts. This textbook introduces the most important aspects of public international law in a clear and authoritative manner.