It covers international and comparative law and policy, with a particular emphasis on politics, economics, and fundamental rights.

[1] It obtained its current name in 2006, broadening its scope to include international legal issues beyond trade.

In 2009, the journal started an online edition in addition to print.

[2] Starting in 2013, the journal publishes an online supplement, entitled Minnesota Journal of International Law Humphrey Supplement, that contains scholarly articles written by Hubert H. Humphrey Fellows.

[3] The journal hosts biennial symposia to discuss timely issues in international law.