Precedence among Heads of Mission

Subject(s):

Diplomatic immunity — Diplomatic missions — Diplomatic relations

This chapter discusses Articles 16, 17, and 18 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Article 16 states that, in accordance with Article 13, heads of diplomatic missions take precedence in their respective classes in the order of the date and time of taking up their functions. It also states that any alterations made in the credentials of a head of mission that does not involve the changing of class shall not affect precedence. Lastly, the Article states that it is not prejudiced regarding the precedence of the representative of the Holy See. Article 17 on the other hand states that Ministry for Foreign Affairs or other similar body shall be notified of the precedence of the diplomatic staff, while Article 18 expresses that the procedure to be observed between each respective State for the reception of heads of mission shall be uniform in respect of class.