What are international treaties?

International treaties are formal agreements between states that set out rules, obligations, or standards on a particular issue. They are one of the main ways international law is created and applied.

Treaties can cover a wide range of topics, from trade and environmental protection to human rights and diplomatic relations. Some treaties are bilateral, involving just two countries, while others are multilateral, signed by many states.

The process of creating a treaty usually involves negotiation, signing, and ratification. Signing shows intent to follow the agreement, but ratification is the step where a country formally accepts the treaty as binding under its domestic procedures. Once in force, treaties function much like contracts between countries: they create rights and obligations that are recognised under international law.

Importantly, treaties are based on consent. States are not bound by a treaty unless they choose to join it. This respect for voluntary participation reflects the principle of sovereignty, while still enabling cooperation on shared challenges.

Famous examples include the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (1969), which sets out the rules for how treaties are made and interpreted, and the Charter of the United Nations (1945), which established the UN and guides its work.

In practice, treaties help bring stability and predictability to international relations. By agreeing to common rules, states can resolve disputes, coordinate actions, and promote trust in the international system.