Book II Diplomatic and Consular Relations, 7 Formal Aspects of Diplomatic Relations: Precedence among Heads of State and States, Selection, Agrément , Precedence among Heads of Mission, Chargés d’Affaires, Credentials, Full Powers for Heads of Mission

Subject(s):

Diplomatic missions — Diplomatic relations — Diplomatic privileges — Sovereignty — Governments

This chapter sets out the titles, precedence, and other formal aspects of diplomatic relations. It begins with a historical background on the order of precedence among sovereigns and Heads of State and the disputes that have arisen in key diplomatic incidents throughout the centuries. It then looks into the titles and precedence of heads of mission, before turning to the two orders of precedence within the United Nations itself—the precedence between delegates and officials and the precedence between member countries. The rest of the chapter is largely devoted to the formal processes governing the ambassadors and other heads of mission. It discusses the selection and appointment of the heads of mission and other diplomatic staff, the limitations of diplomatic missions, multiple accreditation, and so on.