A General Overview of Self-Defence in International Law

Self-defence is a foundational concept in international law that allows states to respond to armed attacks while balancing sovereign rights and international peace. Enshrined in Article 51 of the United Nations Charter and shaped by customary international law, the right of self-defence is both a legal and political mechanism. This paper provides a general overview of the legal framework governing self-defence and explores its fundamental concepts and interpretations. Through a doctrinal analysis, the study aims to highlight the essential elements of self-defence.