Benue State University, Makurdi

An Appraisal of the Efficacy and Compatibility of International Law in Diplomatic Practices

Paul NWALA

Abstract

The Essence of this paper is to examine the efficacy of international law in diplomatic practices among states and non-states actors in international relations in the conduct of their foreign affairs. The paper argues that while international law lays down the rules of how nations or actors in international relations behaves, it is through diplomacy their cordial or conflicting interests are managed in such that incidents capable of breaching international law and subject to litigation or armed conflict can be resolved. The relationship and complementarity between international law and diplomacy has been seen as a veritable instrument through which if often utilized, would result in peaceful conduct of foreign affairs and co-existence, cooperation, resolution of disputes and prevention of armed conflict in the world. While international law can only be invoked in terms of dispute settlement through litigation, diplomacy is aimed at prevention of such dispute from occurrence and when such occurs. It also strives to manage it in such a way that it does not degenerate into armed conflict and pose a disastrous security threat. Through interrogation of relevant primary and secondary sources, the paper contends that application of international law and diplomatic practices would enhance world peace and security maintenance. It concludes that international law and diplomacy like the same wine in different bottles can be applied in resolving conflict and settlement of dispute since it takes diplomatic approach to enforce international law when breached, and it also takes international law to accord legal backing to diplomatic resolutions.

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