IN CHINA’S THREE LINE OF DEFENCE: ADDRESSING THE CORONAVIRUS CLAIMS AGAINST CHINA UNDER INTERNATIONAL LAW

Abstract

The surge of cases of the Coronavirus pandemic have resulted in a rippling impact towards States across the world, increasing mortality rates and causing economic collapse. There have been discussions on whether China, as the epicenter of the virus outbreak, can be held liable for its negligence in domestically containing the virus and as a result, allowing its spread to traverse so viciously across international borders. This paper will identify the many factors that contribute to the spread of the pandemic. It will then highlight the legal challenges in establishing a direct, causal link between China and the spread of the virus for China to be held solely responsible under the regime of international responsibility.