International Relations Basics

Diplomatic Relations

• Definition: Official relationships between governments, aiming to promote mutual understanding, cooperation, and peaceful resolution of disputes.
• Key aspects:
  • Diplomatic immunity: Protection from local laws and jurisdictions for diplomatic personnel and their families.
  • Diplomatic missions: Embassies, consulates, and other representations of a state in another country.
  • Diplomatic communication: Formal channels for exchanging information, negotiating, and resolving conflicts.

Human Rights

• Definition: Universal entitlements to fundamental rights and freedoms, inherent to all human beings.
• Key aspects:
  • Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948): A foundational document outlining 30 fundamental human rights.
  • International human rights law: A body of law protecting human rights, including conventions, treaties, and covenants.
  • Human rights instruments: Legal documents, such as treaties and conventions, that promote and protect human rights.

International Treaties

• Definition: Written agreements between states, outlining obligations and commitments on specific issues.
• Key aspects:
  • Bilateral treaties: Agreements between two states.
  • Multilateral treaties: Agreements between three or more states.
  • Treaty ratification: Formal process by which a state approves and becomes bound by a treaty.
  • Treaty interpretation: The process of clarifying the meaning and scope of treaty provisions.

International Organizations

• Definition: Entities established to promote cooperation, coordination, and collective action among states.
• Key aspects:
  • Intergovernmental organizations (IGOs): Organizations created by governments to address specific issues, such as the United Nations.
  • International non-governmental organizations (INGOs): Independent organizations, such as the Red Cross, that operate internationally.
  • International organizations' roles: Promoting cooperation, setting standards, and providing humanitarian assistance.

State Sovereignty

• Definition: The concept of a state's supreme authority and independence within its territory.
• Key aspects:
  • Westphalian sovereignty: The principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of another state.
  • Sovereignty and territorial integrity: The protection of a state's territorial boundaries and internal governance.
  • Limitations on sovereignty: The recognition of human rights, international law, and the principle of non-interference.