U4P2: The Diplomatic Mission Flashcards
Where can we find a definition of a diplomatic mission?
There is no definition in Vienna 1961, which is a huge failure of the convention as it is at its core. the Convention on Special Missions states that the definition can be found in Vienna 1961, which it cannot. However, by reading the convention we can understand its functions
How can a diplomatic mission be defined?
It is an institutional entity with a specific organic and bureaucratic(hierarchical structure. Its main purpose is the development of the diplomatic functions, and it is different and separate from the agent and personnel working there.
within which legal rule does the diplomatic mission as an institutional entity exist?
The domestic law of the sending state
Are the different types of diplomatic missions established in the VCDR 1961?
No
How many categories of DM do authors specify?
2
First Category of DM
- Embassies
- Nunciatories
- High Commissaries
- High Representatives
Nunciatories
Representatives of the Holy See
High Commissaries and high representations
Don’t exist anymore. Used to exist under the British Commonwealth and the French Community of Nations. Today they are used for other diplomatic representatives such as the EU High Representative for foreign affairs.
The second category of DM
No longer exists. Were diplomatic representatives of a lower rank.
How is the structure of a diplomatic mission determined?
According to the domestic regulation of the sending state
What is the general structure of a DM?
- Chancery
- Press office
- Military representation
- Office for economic and commercial affairs
- Cultural office
- Other offices
Chancery
This is at the core of the mission and is the main officer after the ambassador.
Press office
Distributes information about the sending state
Military representation
Exchange military information and is important when the states are allies in international security organizations.
Head: military attaché
Office for economic and commercial affairs
Promotes trade and investment, provides information on the economic system and explores new markets.
Head: chief counselor
Cultural office
Exchange information and promote cultural relations
Head: cultural attaché
Other offices
Depending on the budget and interest of the sending country. Can be tourism, fisheries, education, labor etc…
What are the three categories of the personnel of the DM?
- Diplomatic Agents
- Members of the administrative and technical staff
- Members of the service staff
Diplomatic Agents
Those agents can represent the interest of the sending state before the receiving state. Ex: head of mission, chancellor and attachés
Members of the administrative and technical staff
Those agents that are hired for specific matters and cannot represent the interest of the sending states. They are usually experts on a fields
Members of the service staff
Domestic services. Usually from the nationality of the receiving state.
What are the three types of activities that the diplomatic mission conducts?
- DM-Receiving state
- DM-Sending state
- DM-other DM’s
Activities of the DM before the receiving state
The main function of the Dm is to represent the sending state before the receiving state. will enjoy certain privileges and immunities, but must also respect the law and sovereignty of the receiving state
How are the activities before the receiving state conducted?
Before the receiving State organs, and in two ways.
- Interviews-meetings
- Diplomatic notes-official letters
