Diplomatic Immunity

Diplomatic Immunity in 1000 words Diplomatic immunity is a form of legal

immunity that ensures diplomats are given safe passage and are considered not
susceptible to lawsuits or prosecution under the host country's laws, although
they can still be expelled. The concept of diplomatic immunity can be traced back
to ancient Greece and Rome, where envoys were given protections from
prosecution by the host country. In modern times, the Vienna Convention on
Diplomatic Relations of 1961 codified diplomatic immunity into international law.
Diplomatic immunity is a principle of international law that grants certain
privileges and immunities to foreign diplomats and consular officers while they
are stationed in another country. It is intended to guarantee their safety and to
ensure the efficient conduct of international relations. Generally, diplomatic
immunity applies to the person of the diplomat, the members of his or her family,
and the diplomatic mission itself. The purpose of diplomatic immunity is to ensure
that foreign diplomats are able to conduct their business without fear of
harassment or persecution from the host country. It is also a sign of respect from
the host country, which recognizes that foreign diplomats are guests and as such
should be treated with respect and courtesy. Diplomatic immunity prevents
foreign diplomats from being arrested, tried, or detained in the host country, and
it also grants them certain privileges, such as tax exemptions, unrestricted travel,
and the right to communicate with their home government without interference.
The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961 defines diplomatic
immunity and sets out the obligations of host countries and foreign diplomats.
The Convention provides that foreign diplomats must be granted certain
privileges and immunities, such as inviolability of their premises, freedom of
movement, and the right to communicate with their home government without
interference.