What is the difference between treaties and conventions?

Treaties and conventions are both written agreements between nations that bind them under international law. However, there are some key differences between the two. Treaties are more formal and legally binding agreements between countries or international organizations. Nations may enter into a treaty for a variety of reasons, such as to create peace, set up trading and economic agreements, or create new laws. Treaties are usually drawn up over a period of time and must be ratified by the legislatures of all parties involved before they become legally binding. Conventions, on the other hand, are less formal agreements that are less specific in scope. They are usually aimed at ensuring that the signatories abide by certain agreed-upon standards or guidelines in a particular area. For example, the Convention of the Rights of the Child is an agreement between nations to protect the rights of children which outlines standards for their care and protection. These conventions do not necessarily require the signatories to pass new laws, but rather place obligations on them to abide by international standards. In short, treaties are more binding and formal agreements between nations, whereas conventions are more general agreements that set certain standards for signatories to abide by. Both treaties and conventions are important elements of international law, but the former have more of an impact on the legal systems of the countries involved.

Related FAQs

What is the World Health Organization (WHO)?
What is the International Convention against the Recruitment, Use, Financing and Training of Mercenaries (CRCM)?
What is the International Law of Humanitarian Intervention?
What is the International Convention for the Suppression of Terrorist Bombings (TBT)?
What is the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY)?
What is the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Persons under Any Form of Detention or Imprisonment (CPED)?
What is the difference between treaties and conventions?
What is the International Law of Sanctions?
What is the International Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC)?
What is the Law of the Sea Tribunal (ITLOS)?

What is the difference between treaties and conventions?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts