Introduction
Agreements between countries can be called treaties, agreements, conventions, and protocols. Treaties can be bilateral (between two countries) or multilateral (between more than two countries).
This guide identifies sources for the text of treaties. The focus is on locating treaties and agreements to which the U.S. is a party, but several sources cover bilateral and multilateral treaties to which the U.S. is not a party.
Hot Topics
- International Law and the Trump Administration [American Society of International Law]An hour-long video featuring "leading experts in the law of treaties and . . . examin[ing] such issues as the status of treaties and other international agreements under both international and U.S. domestic law; the obligation of nations to comply with the agreements into which they have entered; and the procedures under which they are permitted to withdraw from such agreements or repudiate their obligations under them."
Beginning the Treaty Research Process
Here are some questions to consider before you begin treaty research.
- Is the U.S. a party to the treaty? If the answer is yes, begin research with the sources like Treaties in Force. If the answer is no, use other sources like the United Nations Treaty Collection or the Multilateral Treaty Calendar.
- Do you know if the treaty is bilateral or multilateral?
- Do you know the name of the treaty?
- Do you know the approximate date the treaty was open for ratification or adoption? Consult the Multilateral Treaty Calendar.
- Are you looking for a citation to a published source or for the latest status information?
Many treaties are available online. Look for text on the websites of government agencies, international and nongovernmental organizations, and educational institutions--these are generally more trustworthy than other sites.
Definitions
- Definitions of Key Terms Used in the UN Treaty Collection [United Nations]Defines agreements, charters, conventions, declarations, exchange of notes, memoranda of understanding, modus vivendi, protocols, signatories and parties, and treaties.
- Glossary of Terms Relating to Treaty Actions [United Nations]Defines accession, entry into force, provisional application, ratification, reservation, and other terms.
U.S. Treaty Process
The Congressional Research Service created graphics illustrating the steps in the making of treaties and executive agreements.
