ABSTRACT
The present Convention has four authentic languages, English, French, Russian and Spanish, which are thus equivalent. By signature, ratification and accession, the High Contracting Parties accept the four texts as being equally authoritative. Interpretation of the text must, therefore, be based on all four versions. According to this classical system, a distinction is made between the conclusion of a treaty and its entry into force: the conclusion of the treaty ends with the adoption of the text and signature; its entry into force is covered by Articles 31 to 33. Article 34, which gives the High Contracting Parties an additional period of six months from the date of entry into force to take all necessary measures to ensure the effective application of the Convention. The Convention also includes a registration provision similar to that in Article 64/63/143/159 common to the Geneva Conventions.
