Functions of A Diplomatic Mission Basic Functions of A Diplomatic Mission Include
Functions of A Diplomatic Mission Basic Functions of A Diplomatic Mission Include
It is true that diplomats are exempt from the criminal, civil and administrative jurisdiction of the
host country. However, this exemption may be waived by their home country. Moreover, the
immunity of a diplomat from the jurisdiction of the host country does not exempt him/her from
the jurisdiction of his/her home country.
It is also within the discretion of the host country to declare any member of the diplomatic staff
of a mission persona non grata (or unwanted person). This may be done at any time and there is
no obligation to explain such a decision. In these situations, the home country, as a rule, would
recall the person or terminate his/her function with the mission.
The Vienna Convention provides for specific measures that can be taken by both the home and
host countries in cases of misuse or abuse of diplomatic privileges and immunities. On the
whole, diplomatic privileges and immunities have served as efficient tools facilitating relations
between States. No UN Member State has so far proposed rescinding the Convention or re-
writing its provisions.
Diplomatic privileges and immunities guarantee that diplomatic agents or members of their
immediate family:
Cases: Debate: Should the United States, and the international community more broadly, consider
coercive diplomacy in the case of Iran? What would this entail?