The definition of norm conflict in Public International Law: the case of World Trade Organization Law

Abstract

Conflict of norms is an essential concept in public international law. In today’s world, where the international legal system is made up of a complex network of international norms, often interfering with each other, the conflict of norms is increasingly becoming a real and inevitable concept. In this context, having an appropriate definition of conflict becomes critical in order to clearly identify the rights and obligations of the respective parties. This article reviews different views on a proper definition of conflict in doctrine and the jurisprudence of international bodies. While doing this, we will put a special emphasis on World Trade Organization (WTO) jurisprudence which is increasingly becoming a recognized authority in contributing to public international law