Agreement vs Treaty: Understanding the Difference
When it comes to international diplomacy, the terms „agreement“ and „treaty“ are often used interchangeably. However, there are distinct differences between the two, and it is important to understand them.
An agreement is a broad term that refers to any kind of understanding or arrangement between two or more parties. It can be written or oral and can cover a wide range of topics, from trade to the environment to national security. Agreements can be formal or informal, and they do not always require the ratification of a governing body.
On the other hand, a treaty is a specific type of agreement that is binding under international law. It is a formal, written agreement that is negotiated and signed by representatives of sovereign states. Treaties require ratification by the governing bodies of each participating country in order to become legally binding.
One key difference between an agreement and a treaty is the level of commitment involved. While agreements can be voluntary or non-binding, treaties represent a higher level of commitment. When a country signs a treaty, they are agreeing to be bound by its terms and to follow its provisions.
Another difference is the process involved in negotiating and ratifying these agreements. While an agreement can be reached through informal discussions or even a handshake, treaties require a formal negotiation process and often involve multiple rounds of talks between representatives of the countries involved. Additionally, treaties require ratification by each country`s governing body, which can be a lengthy process.
In terms of their legal status, treaties are considered to be superior to agreements, as they are binding under international law. If a country violates a treaty, they can be held accountable by other countries and may face legal action. Agreements, on the other hand, are not legally binding and can be easily broken without consequence.
One example of a treaty is the Paris Agreement, which was signed by 196 countries in 2015 to combat climate change. This treaty required countries to submit plans for reducing their greenhouse gas emissions and regularly report on their progress. The United States famously withdrew from the Paris Agreement in 2017, citing concerns about its economic impact.
In conclusion, while the terms „agreement“ and „treaty“ are often used interchangeably in casual conversation, they have distinct differences in terms of their legal status and level of commitment. It is important to understand these differences in order to accurately report on international treaties and agreements.