Breaking Relations

Breaking Relations in Diplomatic Law

Breaking Relations

The formal act of severing diplomatic relations with another state to underscore disapproval of its actions or policies. It is generally an unwise step, because when relations between states are most strained is when the maintaining of diplomatic relations is most important. It makes little sense to keep diplomats on the scene when things are going relatively well and then take them away when they are most needed. An intermediate step which indicates serious displeasure but stops short of an actual diplomatic break is for a government to recall its ambassador indefinitely. This is preferable to a break in relations as his embassy will continue to function; but again this comes under the heading of cutting one’s nose to spite one’s face. If a dramatic gesture of this kind is needed, it is far better promptly and publicly to recall an ambassador for consultations, and then just as promptly return him to his post.

Resources

See Also

• Diplomacy entries in the World Encyclopedia
• Diplomacy entries in the American Legal Encyclopedia

Further Reading

• Satow’s Diplomatic Practice, Ivor Roberts
• Modern Diplomacy, R.P. Barnston