Montevideo Convention: Defining Statehood and Sovereignty in Law
Definition & Meaning
The Montevideo Convention refers to the Montevideo Convention on the Rights and Duties of States, a treaty that outlines the criteria for statehood under international law. Signed in Montevideo, Uruguay, on December 26, 1933, during the Seventh International Conference of American States, it established that all states are equal sovereign entities. According to the convention, a state must have a permanent population, defined territorial boundaries, a functioning government, and the capacity to engage in relations with other states.
Legal Use & context
The Montevideo Convention is significant in international law and is often referenced in discussions about state sovereignty and recognition. It plays a role in various legal areas, including:
- International relations
- Diplomatic law
- Conflict resolution
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Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Here are a couple of examples illustrating the application of the Montevideo Convention:
- Example 1: A newly formed government in a territory that has declared independence seeks recognition from other nations. If it meets the criteria outlined in the Montevideo Convention, it can be recognized as a sovereign state.
- Example 2: A region with a stable population and defined borders is involved in a territorial dispute. The Montevideo Convention can be referenced to argue for its status as a sovereign entity. (hypothetical example)