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All heads of mission represent their states, but the term representative does not usually appear in the formal titles which indicate their diplomatic rank (sense 1). However, if (as sometimes happens) a difficulty occurs over the use of such a title, the states concerned may agree to resort to the generic term ‘representative’, or the sending state may unilaterally adopt that designation. The two states may also, in these circumstances, agree on the diplomatic class into which the representative falls; alternatively, the receiving state will make its own determination on the matter.
Such a case arose in respect of British-Irish representation during the Second World War (at which time there was a difference of opinion as to whether Ireland was a dominion). Britain refused to agree to Ireland\'s wish that the representative of each of them should have a diplomatic rank and title. It was therefore agreed that their representatives should be so called. However, a further problem arose as Ireland refused to use the name ‘United Kingdom’, as its full version included the words ‘and Northern Ireland’. Thus while Britain called her representative in Dublin the ‘Representative of the United Kingdom’, Ireland called him the ‘British Representative’.
The title of representative may also be given to an individual appointed by the UN to support the Secretary-General\'s efforts in the field of peace and security. See also accredited diplomatic representative; accredited representative; diplomatic representative; personal representative; polpred; representative character; representative office; special envoy; special representative. |
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