International Law and Espionage

Espionage, an area of state activity which is vital to international relations, yet which is unregulated by international law, is coming to assume increasing importance in the New World Order . This work examines four major areas of public international law: freedom of information and human rights, diplomacy, territory, and armed conflict. An analysis is given of their theoretical and practical connection to the practice of espionage. The relevance of international law to espionage is demonstrated, not least by the absence of any official link between the two (save in time of war). The conclusion shows that it is time for international legal provision to be made for the control of an activity which is universal, and which plays such a crucial role in the deterrence of conflict and the maintenance of international peace and security. This book should be a useful reference work for those who seek to understand the ill-defined legality and permissibility of espionage in the uncertainties of the modern world. It should be of interest to international lawyers, and all interested in the realities of international relations.