Reciprocity in diplomatic norms is a tool to balance and preserve sovereignty ✍️ Hisham Mahmoud Suleiman
In international relations, diplomatic norms constitute the framework that governs interactions between countries and guarantees mutual respect among its members. Among these norms, the principle of reciprocity is one of the most important mechanisms used to maintain balance between countries and protect national sovereignty.
The concept of reciprocity: –
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The concept of reciprocity refers to a legal and diplomatic principle that requires states to treat other states in the same way that those states treat their interests or their citizens. This principle promotes sovereign equality between states and limits the exploitation of one party by another in international relations. .
Legal basis of the transaction
Likewise:-
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The principle of reciprocity has been framed in several international agreements, notably:
1. Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961): –
This agreement is considered the legal basis for regulating diplomatic relations between the countries. The agreement stipulates the right of states to take reciprocal measures to ensure respect for their sovereignty. Article 9 of the agreement allows any state to declare any diplomat persona non grata, which opens the way. the way for similar measures by the other State.
2. Vienna Convention on Consular Relations (1963): –
This agreement dealt with consular relations and emphasized that any violation by a State could result in similar measures to ensure respect for consular rights.
3. General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT): –
This agreement, which has become an integral part of the World Trade Organization, stipulates the principle of (non-discrimination) and the principle of (reciprocity) in trade relations, which guarantee a balance in the imposition of customs duties and standards trade between countries.
4. Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation (1944): –
The agreement emphasizes the principle of reciprocity in granting air transport rights to countries, such that the rights granted to one country are equivalent to the rights granted to the other country.
How is reciprocity practiced? :-
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1. In diplomatic relations
If a country expels diplomats from another country, the latter often responds by expelling a similar number of diplomats.
example:-
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In 2021, the United States expelled Russian diplomats accused of election interference, and Russia responded similarly by expelling American diplomats.
2. In international trade:-
When a country imposes tariffs or trade barriers on another country's products, the latter responds with similar measures.
example:-
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The trade dispute between China and the United States under President Donald Trump, as both countries imposed tariffs on each other
3. Concerning movement rights and visas: –
If one country imposes visa restrictions on citizens of another country, the latter often responds in kind.
example:-
In 2020, the United States imposed visa restrictions on Chinese people, and China responded with similar restrictions on Americans.
4. In consular cases: –
When a country's consulate is closed, the targeted country responds in kind
example:-
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In 2020, the United States asked China to close its consulate in Houston, and China responded by closing the U.S. consulate in Chengdu.
The importance of reciprocity:-
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1. Maintain balance:-
Reciprocity avoids an imbalance of power between countries
2. Strengthen sovereignty: –
It allows States to protect their rights and interests
3. Achieve deterrence: –
This sends clear messages not to accept any violation of their rights
4. Respect for international law: it ensures that countries adhere to common rules
Challenges and risks: –
Despite the effectiveness of reciprocity
Its inconsiderate implementation could lead to an escalation of crises:
Diplomatic escalation: –
Mutual expulsion measures of diplomats could lead to deterioration of relations between countries
Trade wars: –
This can lead to economic losses for everyone
Reciprocity is one of the fundamental pillars on which international relations are based and, despite the challenges it brings, it shows the importance of justice and balance in relations between countries.
States seek to protect their sovereignty and interests. Caution in managing this tool remains essential to ensure that it is used as a means of achieving stability rather than triggering conflict.
