Does the US have diplomatic immunity?
Does the US have diplomatic immunity?
The Diplomatic Relations Act of 1978, 22 U.S.C. § 254a et seq. governs diplomatic immunity in the United States. Title 22 specifies the degree of protection awarded to diplomatic personnel; protection increases in parallel with the official’s status within a diplomatic mission.
Are there any exceptions to diplomatic immunity?
There are exceptions. In rare cases, both the second and third categories of embassy personnel above may enjoy as much immunity as diplomatic agents. But this happens only when the home country and the host country enter a special agreement (or treaty) for that purpose.
Are Diplomats part of the State Department?
Department of State employees at missions comprise U.S.-based political appointees and career diplomats, and Foreign Service Nationals.
Who has full diplomatic immunity?
Top diplomatic officers have full immunity, as do their deputies and families. That means ambassadors can commit just about any crime—from jaywalking to murder—and still be immune from prosecution. They can’t be arrested or forced to testify in court.
Why are diplomats above the law?
Diplomatic immunity is a form of legal immunity that ensures diplomats are given safe passage and are considered not susceptible to lawsuit or prosecution under the host country’s laws, although they may still be expelled. The concept and custom of diplomatic immunity dates back thousands of years.
Who are US diplomats?
Diplomats are the specialists that represent America and U.S. interests abroad to ensure that diplomacy endures. These esteemed representatives of the U.S. are resilient negotiators who promote peace, protect American citizens abroad, and support prosperity.
How many US diplomats are there?
7,999 Foreign Service Officers, called “generalist” diplomats. 5,791 Foreign Service Specialists (consular fellows are counted by State Human Resources as specialists)
Why are diplomats given immunity?
Diplomats who represent their country abroad enjoy diplomatic immunity. This protects them against prosecution in the receiving state for the entire period in which they hold their diplomatic post.
