What is Pacta Sunt Servanda?

Pacta Sunt Servanda is a fundamental principle of international law, meaning agreements and treaties must be honoured in good faith.

Simply signing a treaty is not enough; States are legally bound to perform their obligations sincerely and cannot use domestic laws as an excuse for non-compliance.

This principle ensures stability and trust in international relations and is recognised under Article 26 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, forming the backbone of enforceable international agreements.