Diplomacy
Briefly describe the origin and emergence of conference Diplomacy in the 19th Century.
Conference diplomacy refers to the practice of resolving international disputes and promoting
cooperation among nations through the convening of international conferences. These conferences
bring together representatives from different countries to discuss issues of mutual concern and to
negotiate agreements or treaties.
Conference diplomacy emerged in the 19th century as a response to the increasingly complex and
interconnected nature of international relations. The first major international conference was held in
1814-1815 in Vienna, Austria, following the Napoleonic Wars. This conference, known as the Congress of
Vienna, brought together representatives from the major European powers to negotiate a peace treaty
and establish a new balance of power in Europe.
The Congress of Vienna set a precedent for future international conferences, which became an
important tool for resolving conflicts and promoting cooperation among nations. Over the course of the
19th century, there were several other significant international conferences, including the Congress of
Paris (1856), the Berlin Conference (1884-1885), and the Hague Conferences (1899 and 1907).
These conferences were typically organized by a host nation and attended by representatives from
other nations, often including heads of state or government. They provided a neutral space for
diplomats to discuss issues of mutual concern and to negotiate agreements or treaties. The rise of
conference diplomacy in the 19th century reflected the growing recognition of the importance of
international cooperation and the need for formalized mechanisms to manage relations between
nations.
(b) Highlight two functions of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic relations.
(VCDR)
The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (VCDR) is an international treaty that establishes a
framework for diplomatic relations between independent countries. It provides a set of rules and
principles that govern the conduct of diplomatic missions, their personnel, and their activities. The main
functions of the VCDR are:
1. Recognition: The VCDR recognizes the equality of states and their sovereign rights to establish
diplomatic relations with other countries. It also provides a mechanism for the establishment of
diplomatic relations, including the exchange of diplomatic representatives.
2. Protection: The VCDR affords diplomatic agents and their families a special status and protection
under international law. This includes immunity from civil and criminal jurisdiction, freedom of
movement, inviolability of their residences, and exemption from taxes and customs duties.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations plays a crucial role in maintaining
diplomatic relations between independent countries. It provides a set of rules and principles that govern
the conduct of diplomatic missions, their personnel, and their activities. The VCDR promotes
international cooperation and understanding, protects diplomatic agents and their families, establishes
channels of communication, and includes provisions for the settlement of disputes.