Derogations and reservations are terms often used in the context of international law and human rights. They refer to specific measures that countries may take to modify or exclude the application of certain provisions of an international treaty or agreement to which they are a party.
- Derogations: A derogation allows a state to temporarily suspend or modify its obligations under a treaty or agreement during exceptional circumstances. It is typically invoked during times of emergency, such as a national security crisis or a state of emergency. Derogations are usually subject to certain conditions and limitations, including the requirement that the measures taken must be strictly necessary and proportionate to the situation at hand. The state invoking a derogation must notify the relevant treaty monitoring body or other states party to the treaty, explaining the reasons for the derogation and the measures taken.
- Reservations: A reservation allows a state to exclude or modify the legal effect of specific provisions of a treaty or agreement when it becomes a party to it. Reservations are usually made at the time of ratification or accession to a treaty. By making a reservation, a state seeks to exempt itself from certain treaty obligations that it considers incompatible with its domestic laws or policies. Reservations can be unilateral declarations made by the state, indicating its intent not to be bound by certain provisions. However, reservations must not be incompatible with the object and purpose of the treaty, and they may be subject to scrutiny or objections by other states party to the treaty or the treaty monitoring body.
It is important to note that derogations and reservations are subject to international legal principles and procedures. The acceptability and validity of derogations and reservations may vary depending on the treaty in question and the specific provisions involved. States are generally encouraged to use derogations and reservations sparingly and in a manner consistent with the overall goals and objectives of the treaty or agreement they have ratified.