Pacta Sunt Servanda: The Principle of Treaty Performance in Good Faith

The principle of international law that states that treaties must be performed in good faith by the parties involved is 'Pacta sunt servanda'. This principle is fundamental to the international legal system and ensures that agreements between states are honored and respected.

A. Pacta sunt servanda

This principle is enshrined in Article 26 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, which states: "Every treaty in force is binding upon the parties to it and must be performed by them in good faith."

Why is Pacta Sunt Servanda Important?

• Stability and Predictability: It provides stability and predictability in international relations by ensuring that states can rely on their agreements.
• Enforcement of International Law: It underpins the enforcement of international law by creating a mechanism for holding states accountable for their treaty obligations.
• Trust and Cooperation: It fosters trust and cooperation among states by emphasizing the importance of keeping promises.

Other Options:

• State Responsibility: Deals with the consequences of breaches of international law by states.
• Customary International Law: Unwritten rules of international law that are based on the consistent practice of states.
• Erga Omnes Obligations: Obligations that states owe to the international community as a whole.