Taming the Lawless Void: Tracking the Evolution of International Law Rules for Cyberspace

3:3 Texas National Security Review 32-47 (Autumn 2020)

16 Pages Posted: 23 Feb 2021

See all articles by Michael N. Schmitt

Michael N. Schmitt

Lieber Institute, USMA at West Point; University of Reading School of Law; Naval War College - Stockton Center for the Study of International Law

Date Written: September 17, 2020

Abstract

To gauge the manner in which international law is likely to evolve with respect to cyberspace, this article first evaluates how normative evolution is likely to occur. Second, it lays out the legal-strategic options open to states in approaching law’s evolution as applied to cyber operations. Lastly, the article assesses the general vector of international law’s evolution with respect to cyberspace. A trend is emerging — one that acknowledges the power of international law rules to hamper harmful cyber operations.

Keywords: cyber, international law, sovereignty, use of force, intervention, norms

Suggested Citation

Schmitt, Michael N., Taming the Lawless Void: Tracking the Evolution of International Law Rules for Cyberspace (September 17, 2020). 3:3 Texas National Security Review 32-47 (Autumn 2020), Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3755534

Michael N. Schmitt (Contact Author)

Lieber Institute, USMA at West Point ( email )

600 Thayer Rd
West Point, NY Rhode Island 10996
United States
4016190192 (Phone)
02871-5150 (Fax)

HOME PAGE: http://https://www.reading.ac.uk/law/Staff/m-schmitt.aspx

University of Reading School of Law ( email )

Whiteknights
Reading, Berkshire RG6 6AH
United Kingdom

HOME PAGE: http://https://www.reading.ac.uk/law/Staff/m-schmitt.aspx

Naval War College - Stockton Center for the Study of International Law ( email )

686 Cushing Road
Newport, RI 02841
United States

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