Enrique Alberto Prieto-Ríos

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the intersection between business operations and human rights, equipping students with the knowledge and analytical tools to assess corporate responsibilities in a globalized world. Students will critically examine international human rights law and analyze its impact on corporate practices and the evolving Business and Human Rights agenda. The course will cover key frameworks, including the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and introduce sector-specific human rights due diligence approaches. In addition to examining international and regional developments—particularly in the Inter-American and European systems—students will also analyze domestic legal frameworks in the United States, Germany, and France, as well as the European Union Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence. These comparative perspectives will help students understand how different jurisdictions are advancing corporate accountability for human rights impacts. By the end of the course, students will be able to evaluate corporate human rights obligations, understand the legal and ethical dimensions of business activities, and critically assess strategies for mitigating human rights risks in various industries. Final research paper and presentation required in lieu of final exam. UPPER-CLASS WRITING REQUIREMENT: This class may be used to partially satisfy the requirement.

This class is intended to introduce students to the key legal and practical issues encountered when resolving disputes through international arbitration. Arbitration is a private means of dispute resolution where the parties agree to be bound by the decision of an arbitrator of their choice, whose decision in a final award has the same legal force as a court judgment or order. International arbitration is the main form of dispute resolution relating to cross-border commercial disputes and is also sometimes used in public international law contexts involving governments. This course will explore both doctrinal issues--such as what constitutes 'consent' to arbitrate and the relationship between international tribunals, who adjudicate the disputes, and national courts, who compel arbitration and enforce (or void) arbitral decisions--and policy debates, such as what issues are appropriate for resolution by private arbitrators rather than judges and the social ramifications of the lack of transparency in arbitration. There will be a skills component, including hands-on exercises such as roleplays, oral advocacy, and drafting arbitration clauses. PREREQUISITE: Students must have taken a course (any course) in international law (knowledge of the foundations of international law, e.g., what is a treaty, will be presumed). UPPER-CLASS WRITING REQUIREMENT: This class may be used to satisfy the requirement.