What is NOT a characteristic of public international law?

Public international law primarily governs the relationships between sovereign states and international entities. It encompasses various aspects, including treaties, international agreements, and customary international law.

The governance of international relations is a fundamental characteristic, as public international law provides the framework through which states interact, conduct diplomacy, and establish rules for their behavior towards one another. Treaties and agreements, which are central to this area of law, outline the obligations and responsibilities states have towards each other, addressing issues like trade, security, and human rights.

Additionally, disputes between nations are a significant aspect of public international law, as it provides mechanisms for resolving conflicts, such as through the International Court of Justice or arbitration.

In contrast, regulating the conduct of individuals is more characteristic of national law, which deals with rights, responsibilities, and legal frameworks applicable within a specific jurisdiction. Public international law typically focuses on states and international organizations rather than individuals, although there are exceptions, such as in human rights law where individual rights are recognized and protected under international standards. This distinction clarifies why the regulation of individual conduct does not align with the primary features of public international law.