NCJ Number
186535
Date Published
May 1998
Length
31 pages
Annotation
The report familiarizes law enforcement and judicial officials with the general rules of diplomatic and consular immunity. It provides them with specific guidance regarding the handling of difficult situations involving representatives of foreign governments who are afforded special protections.
Abstract
The report focuses on the underlying concept that foreign representatives can carry out their duties effectively only if they are accorded a certain degree of insulation from the application of standard law enforcement practices of the host country. The categorization of foreign representatives and the level of privileges and immunities afforded them, the quick and accurate identification of a person asserting immunity, and the handling of an alleged criminal violation by persons with immunity. Law enforcement and judicial authorities of the United States must treat foreign diplomatic and consular personnel with just regard for the privileges and immunities to which they are entitled under international law.