Introduction
Honorary consuls have an important part to play in the international relations of many states, particularly smaller states and those unable to afford the costs associated with establishing conventional diplomatic and consular missions. While honorary consuls cannot replace traditional diplomats, they can facilitate multiple and deep engagements with political bodies, commercial organisations, nationals located abroad and citizens of receiving states. Their engagements can take place on different levels, including political, commercial and cultural. However, to best perform their role they need not only an understanding of the underlying legal aspects governing their role, but also practicial skills to fulfil their duties and responsibilities.
This executive diploma consists of four modules, combining a self-directed online component, containing a mix of pre-recorded lectures from experts, as well as from Heads of State, Foreign Ministers or Ambassadors, who are engaged in the use of honorary consuls, with interactive lessons and information forums. At the end of each module a two-day web-based workshop led by an expert will explore the practical side of the topic and allow for peer-to-peer learning.
Learning Objectives
On completion of the course, participants will be able to:
- Summarise the history and current importance of honorary consuls in contemporary diplomatic relations;
- Explain the legal framework governing honorary consuls;
- Describe the normal activities of an honorary consul and assess their responsibilities;
- Explain issues of practice and protocol;
- Describe and critically assess the important role of honorary consuls in the modern world;
- Discuss the future of the role of Honorary Consuls in particular in crisis situations such as evacuations, repatriations and other critical roles of the Honorary Consul in todays environment.
Content and Structure
The course will consist of four modules:
Module 1 – Codification of the Status of Honorary Consuls in International Law;
Module 2 – Honorary consuls and their relationship with diplomatic and consular missions;
Module 3 – The Contemporary Use of Honorary Consuls;
Module 4 – Diplomatic Protocol for Honorary Consuls.
Each of the four modules will consist of a self-directed online compontent, containing a mix of pre-recorded lectures from experts, as well as from Heads of State, Foreign Ministers or Ambassadors, who are engaged in the use of honorary consuls, interactive lessons and information forums. At the end of each module a two-day web-based workshop led by an expert on the topic will explore the practicial side of the topic and allow for peer-to-peer learning.
Methodology
This course promotes an interactive approach through lessons and multimedia material, stimulating critical thinking. Each module has its own learning objectives, as well as interactive online lessons, which guide participants through the contents. The lessons are also available in PDF format so participants can work offline. Contents and activities are practice-oriented and under a self-assessment approach, so participants will learn through practical examples and assignments associated with research and case scenarios. This experience will be supported by the UNITAR team, additional resources and material, and visuals such as infographics and videos.
Each module culminates in a final e-workshop conducted via the platform Zoom and will be facilitated by an expert on the theme. The material presented in the workshop will be interactive and assignments will be given for participants to further advance their knowledge.
Target Audience
The Executive Diploma will be designed for 25 to 30 honorary consuls, as well as those who intend to serve as honorary consuls.
How to register:
Registration
Interested participants are invited to register via UNITAR’s website:
https://www.unitar.org/event/full-catalog/executive-diploma-international-diplomatic-law-honorary-consuls-0
Contact
Dr. Anna Sabrina Wollmann
International Law Programme,
Division for Multilateral Diplomacy
anna.wollmann@unitar.