Bridges of Peace: Why Secure Embassies are Vital for Global Stability

Under Article 22 of the Vienna Convention, the host government carries a "special duty" to take all appropriate steps to protect the embassy. This responsibility is proactive, requiring the local authorities to prevent any intrusion, damage, or even "disturbance of the peace" that might impair the dignity of the mission.The responsibility of the host government is absolute because it holds the monopoly on law enforcement within its borders. Since the foreign embassy is forbidden from maintaining its own military force on foreign soil, it must rely entirely on the host's police and security apparatus to keep the perimeter secure from external threats.Furthermore, the principle of reciprocity ensures that these laws are followed.