Diplomatic mission

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Yhdysvaltain Helsingin-suurlähetystö

Nordic embassies Berlin (July 2008) 4

House of Sweden - Washington, D.C

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Diplomatic mission refers to a group of people from one state or an international organization present in another state to represent the sending state/organization officially in the receiving state. In essence, it involves the tasks of representing the home country abroad, protecting the interests of the home country and its citizens in the host country, negotiating with the host country's government, promoting friendly relations, and developing economic, cultural, and scientific relations. Diplomatic missions are typically led by a diplomat with the title of Ambassador or High Commissioner in Commonwealth countries, where the receiving state is also a Commonwealth country.

Types of Diplomatic Missions

Diplomatic missions can vary based on their purpose and the level of representation they provide. The most common types include:

• Embassy: An embassy is the primary diplomatic mission sent by one sovereign state to another, located in the host country's capital city. It is led by an ambassador and is involved in major diplomatic activities.
• Consulate: Consulates are secondary diplomatic missions, often located in major cities other than the capital. They handle minor diplomatic issues such as issuing visas, aiding in trade relationships, and assisting citizens of the home country.
• Permanent Mission: These missions represent their country to international organizations like the United Nations. They are permanent delegations, often located in cities where the organization has its headquarters.
• High Commission: This is the equivalent of an embassy between Commonwealth countries. It performs the same functions as an embassy but is situated in a fellow Commonwealth country.

Functions of Diplomatic Missions

The primary functions of diplomatic missions include:

• Representation: Acting on behalf of the sending state in the receiving state and working to promote the interests of the home country.
• Protection: Safeguarding the interests of the sending state and its citizens in the host country.
• Negotiation: Engaging with the host country's government to discuss and form agreements on various issues.
• Information: Gathering and reporting information on significant developments in the host country that could affect the home country.
• Promotion: Encouraging friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries, which includes cultural, economic, and scientific ties.

Diplomatic Immunity

Members of a diplomatic mission are often granted diplomatic immunity, which means they are not subject to the jurisdiction of the host country's laws, to a large extent. This immunity is crucial for diplomats to perform their duties without interference from the host country's government or legal system.

Closure and Expulsion

A diplomatic mission may be closed temporarily or permanently, often as a result of significant diplomatic disputes. Similarly, diplomats may be expelled from the host country as an act of protest or as a punitive measure in response to actions by the sending state.

See Also

• Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations
• Diplomatic accreditation
• Diplomatic rank
• Diplomatic passport
• List of diplomatic missions