Episode 39: Holding the Line - EJIL: The Podcast!
Episode 39: Holding the Line Episode 39 • 14th November 2025 • EJIL: The Podcast! • European Journal of International Law 00:00:00 00:46:52 1 Notes Links Follow Share Notes Links Follow Share Share Episode Share Copy link Start at Embed Copy code Download Audio Share to X Share to LinkedIn Shownotes In this episode, Philippa Webb and Marko Milanovic are joined by Nicolas Angelet and Oona Hathaway to discuss the legality of the US strikes against suspected drug boats in the Caribbean and the additional threats made by the United States against Venezuela, which include a possible land invasion. The hosts and their guests then turn to the recent UNRWA advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice, discussing some of the interesting questions that it raises, including the inviolability of UN premises during armed conflict. In doing so, they also reflect on the downward spiral of the international legal order. Follow RSS Links Chapters Video More from YouTube
Executive Summary
Episode 39 of EJIL: The Podcast! delves into two critical international legal issues: the legality of US strikes against suspected drug boats in the Caribbean and threats against Venezuela, and the recent UNRWA advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The discussion, led by Philippa Webb and Marko Milanovic with guests Nicolas Angelet and Oona Hathaway, explores the complexities of these topics, including the inviolability of UN premises during armed conflict. The episode also reflects on the broader deterioration of the international legal order.
Key Points
- ▸ Legality of US strikes against drug boats in the Caribbean and threats against Venezuela
- ▸ Analysis of the UNRWA advisory opinion by the ICJ
- ▸ Discussion on the inviolability of UN premises during armed conflict
- ▸ Reflection on the downward spiral of the international legal order
Merits
Comprehensive Analysis
The episode provides a thorough examination of the legal and political implications of US actions in the Caribbean and the ICJ's advisory opinion on UNRWA. The discussion is nuanced and well-informed, offering valuable insights into current international legal challenges.
Expert Panel
The participation of distinguished experts like Nicolas Angelet and Oona Hathaway adds depth and credibility to the discussion, ensuring a high level of academic and practical rigor.
Demerits
Lack of Concrete Solutions
While the episode thoroughly analyzes the issues, it falls short of proposing concrete solutions or actionable steps to address the deterioration of the international legal order.
Time Constraints
The discussion is somewhat constrained by the time format, which limits the depth of exploration into each topic. More time could have allowed for a more detailed analysis of the ICJ's advisory opinion and its broader implications.
Expert Commentary
The episode effectively captures the current state of international legal discourse, particularly in the context of US actions in the Caribbean and the ICJ's advisory opinion on UNRWA. The discussion on the inviolability of UN premises is timely and relevant, given the ongoing conflicts and the need to uphold international humanitarian law. However, the episode could benefit from a more forward-looking perspective, offering concrete recommendations for policy makers and legal practitioners. The reflection on the downward spiral of the international legal order is insightful but somewhat pessimistic. A more balanced approach, highlighting potential avenues for reform and strengthening international legal institutions, would enhance the episode's value. Overall, the episode is a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate on international law and its challenges.
Recommendations
- ✓ Incorporate more concrete policy recommendations and actionable steps to address the issues discussed.
- ✓ Extend the discussion time to allow for a more detailed analysis of the ICJ's advisory opinion and its broader implications.
