[ German Translation ]

> DE FACTO – DE JURE

Forms of state recognition

International practice distinguishes between de facto and de jure recognition of a new state according to its degree of consolidation as well as its chances of maintaining a stable rule of law. When there are doubts as to the stability of a new state’s exercised authority within a particular territory at a particular time, other states may grant it de facto recognition, i.e. they will recognize the legal system of the new state as existing in fact. De facto recognition is essentially a provisional form of recognition. It can already occur through an entry or exit stamp in a passport. When a state is able to prove its stability, de jure recognition will in time follow, provided the de facto recognition is not retracted. De jure recognition expresses trust in the stability of the new state. This form of recognition is definitive and retroactive.

SoS De Facto Recognitions and diplomatic relations:



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