The role of South Africa on the matter of Israel’s injustice towards the Palestinian people was raised during the discussion. Anger was also directed towards the United States, Russia, and China for their lack of membership in the International Criminal Court although they may refer cases. A strong sense of frustration was expressed from the lack of resolution on both matters. In discussing the application of diplomatic immunities, Members referred to the recent controversies surrounding President al-Bashir and former Zimbabwean First Lady Grace Mugabe. Members questioned the current applicability of certain provisions established by the Vienna Conventions as the situation in the world has significantly changed since their adoption. Skepticism arose about the intentions and actions of diplomats from other countries, specifically, how much an individual protected by immunity can get away with. Members expressed concerns about the extent of diplomatic immunities. The Committee needed to ensure the Foreign Service Bill aligns with international standards.
A second briefing outlined the structure of a diplomatic mission as defined by the Vienna Conventions. The exercise sought to observe how these immunities and privileges are applied internationally through the South African Foreign Service Bill as well as domestically through the Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges Act. The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, companied by DIRCO officials, provided a briefing on the privileges and immunities represented in the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the functional immunities outlined in the 1963 Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.
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