End of Diplomatic Functions

Subject(s):

Diplomatic immunity — Diplomatic missions — Diplomatic relations

This chapter analyses Article 43 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations which discusses the end of diplomatic functions. According to the Article, the function of a diplomatic agent comes to an end, inter alia: (a) on notification by the sending State to the receiving State that the function of the diplomatic agent has come to an end; (b) on notification by the receiving State to the sending State that, in accordance with Article 9, it refuses to recognize the diplomatic agent as a member of the mission. The chapter also looks into how conflict can end the functions of a diplomatic agent. A change of government on either side not involving the Head of State, or the constitutional replacement of an elected Head of State following his death, resignation, or the end of his term of office does not on the other hand automatically end the function of the diplomatic agent.