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 short two-week course is aimed at providing honorary consuls or those seeking to take up such an appointment with an understanding of the key roles, responsibilities and underlying legal framework governing the work of honorary consul. At the end of the second week a two-day workshop on UN Protocol will allow participants to gain further practical insights.
Learning Objectives
At the end of the course participants will be able to:
- 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.
Content and Structure
This short online course covers the law relating to honorary consuls as well expectations and responsibilities of honorary consuls honorary consuls. It will cumulate in a workshop on protocols and practice
Week 1: International diplomatic law
In the first week participants will explore the key legal principles pertaining to honorary consuls:
- Introduction to International Law;
- The laws governing the work of honorary consuls;
- Introduction to the work of honorary consuls.
Week 2: Roles and Responsibilities for Honorary Consuls
During the second week participants will dive into practical matters of the work of honorary consul, including UN protocol:
- The Roles and Responsibilities of honorary consuls;
- Introduction to diplomatic protocol;
- Anti-Bribery and Corruption.
Methodology
This course promotes an interactive approach through lessons and multimedia material, stimulating critical thinking. Each part 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.
The final e-workshop will be 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 course is designed for 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/diplomatic-law-and-responsibilities-honorary-consuls
Contact
Dr. Anna Sabrina Wollmann
International Law Programme,
Division for Multilateral Diplomacy
anna.wollmann@unitar.org