Vienna Convention on Consular Relations

Quick Facts: Who was Vienna Convention on Consular Relations?

Subject:

Vienna Convention on Consular Relations

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International treaty defining consular relations and immunities between sovereign states.

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2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

The Vienna Convention on Consular Relations is an international treaty that defines a framework for consular relations between sovereign states. It codifies many consular practices that originated from state custom and various bilateral agreements between states. Consuls have traditionally been employed to represent the interests of states or their nationals at an embassy or consulate in another country.

Career & Major Achievements

The Convention defines and articulates the functions, rights, and immunities accorded to consular officers and their offices, as well as the rights and duties of "receiving States" (where the consul is based) and "sending States" (the state the consul represents). Adopted in 1963, and in force since 1967, the treaty has been ratified by 182 states. The convention was adopted on 24 April 1963 following the United Nations Conference on Consular Relations in Vienna, Austria from 4 March to 22 April 1963.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Its official texts are in English, French, Chinese, Russian and Spanish; the Convention provides that the five versions are equally authentic. The treaty contains 79 articles.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1963: 1963 Milestone — Adopted in 1963, and in force since 1967, the treaty has been ratified by 182 states.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Vienna Convention on Consular Relations

True or False: “It is a common misconception that the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations was established solely to regulate the relationship between the United States and other nations.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): The Convention was adopted following a major UN Conference and aims to define a universal framework for consular relations between *all* sovereign states, not just one specific country.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Abd el-Krim — Historical peer (Died in 1963) (1963): Moroccan revolutionary leader who spearheaded the revolt against French and Spanish Protectorates.
• Abdul Ghani Baradar — Historical peer (Born in 1963) (1963): Afghan politician and religious leader; co-founder of the Taliban.
• Akshay Kumar — Historical peer (Born in 1967) (1967): Veteran Indian actor and producer, celebrated for action roles and prolific career.
• Albert Luthuli — Historical peer (Died in 1967) (1967): Pioneering anti-apartheid activist and leader of the ANC in South Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions about Vienna Convention on Consular Relations