TASK Write a legal research essay that addresses the following question: Critically analyse and evaluate ONE international convention or UN Declaration, and demonstrate how your selected international legal instrument has shaped the Australian legal landscape of the 21st century, including state / federal government policies and services within the context of human services. Also, in your answer, discuss and critique whether or not you think international law has had a positive impact on vulnerable populations and disadvantaged groups in Australia noting also the limitations of international law. In addition, in your answer, reflect on whether you believe international law is important and relevant to human service practitioners. Before providing your response you should : 1. Ensure you consider Articles in the UN Charter and the International Bill of Human Rights together with relevant domestic law and use examples to illustrate your argument. 2. Consider the marking rubric below. 3. Outline your argument before you start to write/research on the topic. This will assist you in identifying appropriate sources and ensure that you cover all relevant areas. RATIONALE This assessment task will assess the following learning outcome/s: be able to demonstrate a knowledge of the legal system and issues relevant to professional practice in the human services. be able to recognise legal issues and problems in practice. be able to recognise and demonstrate an understanding of mechanisms that positively influence legal processes and outcomes for vulnerable and disadvantaged people. be able to demonstrate judgment as to the appropriate role of the human service worker in relation to the legal system and their client(s). be able to critically evaluate and engage in the wider legal, ethical, social policy debates central to the human services in Australia, including reform of the law. Marking criteria Demonstrated in-depth understanding of international law, including international human rights law / international criminal law and / or international humanitarian law and identification of domestic jurisdictional issues and procedures along with demonstrated reflection on the value of international human rights law for workers in human services. 30% Identification and citation of the relevant international legal rules /legal instruments and corresponding domestic laws applicable to the question 20% Evidence of in-depth legal research, reading and critical scholarship 20%
