Packaging Agreements

Abstract

Diplomatic agreements vary in form to an almost bewildering degree. They vary in title or style, being given such descriptions as treaty final act, protocol, exchange of notes, and even plain ‘agreement’. They vary significantly in textual structure, language, whether they are written or oral, and whether or not they are accompanied by side letters. They also vary in whether they are publicized or kept secret. The purpose of this chapter is to explain this variation, and to indicate what form an agreement might take depending on its subject matter and the political needs of its authors.