In diplomacy, a ' (PNG) is a foreign diplomat that is asked by the host country to be recalled to their home country. If the person is not recalled as requested, the host state may refuse to recognize the person concerned as a member of the diplomatic mission (including the removal of diplomatic immunity). A host country may declare any member of a diplomatic staff ' at any time without any explanation.

Diplomacy

Under Article 9 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, a receiving state may "at any time and without having to explain its decision" declare any member of a diplomatic staff '. A person so declared is considered unacceptable and is usually recalled to their home nation. If not recalled, the receiving state "may refuse to recognize the person concerned as a member of the mission". A person can be declared before even entering the country. or criminal acts such as drug trafficking.

The declaration may also be a symbolic indication of displeasure. So-called "tit for tat" exchanges have occurred (whereby countries involved in a dispute each expel diplomats of the other country), notably during the Cold War. A notable occurrence outside of the Cold War was an exchange between the United States and Ecuador in 2011; the Ecuadorian government expelled the United States ambassador in response to the United States diplomatic cables leak, and the United States responded by expelling the Ecuadorian ambassador.

Other usage

People other than diplomats can be declared ' by a country.

In the Philippines, local legislatures of provinces, towns, and cities can declare certain people or groups, including non-diplomats and Filipino citizens, as persona non grata to express a negative sentiment toward the certain person through a non-binding resolution. This could be in response to the person breaking local ordinance or laws. This has also happened in Spain.

See also

  • '
  • Exile
  • Ostracism
  • Outlaw
  • Refugee

Notes

References

  • eDiplomat.com: Glossary of Diplomatic Terms
  • Text of the Vienna Convention – PDF