4.5 Diplomatic communications 5 Consular immunity : As has already been indicated, one of the functions of a diplomatic mission is to report on conditions and developments within the receiving state. This function can only be achieved if diplomatic staff enjoy a reasonable freedom of movement and communication. Article 26 of the Vienna Convention provides that all members of the diplomatic mission shall enjoy freedom of movement The primary function of consulates, vice consulates, and consular posts is to represent and deal with nationals of the sending state. They enjoy certain immunities, but not as extensive as those enjoyed by diplomatic agents. The law relating to consular relations is contained in the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations 1963 which entered into force in 1967.

doi:10.4324/9781843143802-73

Chapter

4.5 Diplomatic communications 5 Consular immunity

Chapter

As has already been indicated, one of the functions of a diplomatic mission is to report on conditions and developments within the receiving state. This function can only be achieved if diplomatic staff enjoy a reasonable freedom of movement and communication. Article 26 of the Vienna Convention provides that all members of the diplomatic mission shall enjoy freedom of movement The primary function of consulates, vice consulates, and consular posts is to represent and deal with nationals of the sending state. They enjoy certain immunities, but not as extensive as those enjoyed by diplomatic agents. The law relating to consular relations is contained in the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations 1963 which entered into force in 1967.

ABSTRACT

agent receives widespread publicity and there are calls for the immunities to be restricted. It is always possible for immunity to be waived by the sending state under Article 32 of the Vienna Convention. Furthermore, in cases of serious abuse of immunity it is possible for the receiving state to declare the diplomatic agent persona non grata.