Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties

General Information

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What is it about?

Commonly referred to as the “treaty on treaties”, the 1969 Vienna Convention codifies the procedures by which treaties are adopted, interpreted, invalidated and terminated. Drafted by the International Law Commission, the 1969 Convention is a codification of established and binding customary international law on treaties.

Why is it relevant?

The Vienna Convention of 1969 ensures that a uniform set of rules applies to treaties. Codifying a large number of customary norms, it also establishes rules on points which were previously unsettled. In that its provisions are the codification of existing customary international law, the 1969 Vienna Convention may arguably be considered one of the few treaties which is binding on all states, even those which are not a party.

Additional Information

Questions not settled by the Vienna Convention of 1969 continue to be governed by customary international law. Treaties concluded between States and International Organizations are covered by the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties between States and International Organizations (Vienna, 21 March 1986).

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