DIPLOMATIC IMMUNITY IN INDONESIA–CHINA RELATIONS: BETWEEN LEGAL PROTECTION AND POTENTIAL ABUSE IN THE PERSPECTIVE OF THE 1961 VIENNA CONVENTION
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Abstract
Diplomatic immunity is an instrument of international law that has a fundamental function in ensuring the effective implementation of diplomatic relations between the sending state and the receiving state. This study examines diplomatic immunity in Indonesia–China relations by analyzing the balance between legal protection and the potential for abuse of immunity from the perspective of the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The research uses a normative juridical method with a conceptual and legal approach to examine the provisions of international diplomatic law, particularly regarding the rights, obligations, limitations, and mechanisms for addressing alleged misuse of diplomatic immunity. The results of the study indicate that diplomatic immunity is not an absolute personal privilege granted to diplomats, but rather a functional protection intended to guarantee the proper performance of diplomatic functions, including representation, communication, negotiation, and protection of state interests. However, the expansion of bilateral relations between Indonesia and China creates a need for a balanced approach between maintaining diplomatic privileges and ensuring accountability. Potential abuses of immunity must be addressed through lawful mechanisms provided under the Vienna Convention, such as diplomatic communication, requests for waiver of immunity, bilateral consultation, and the declaration of persona non grata. Therefore, the management of diplomatic immunity requires a proportional, legalistic, and diplomatic approach to maintain stable bilateral relations while safeguarding the sovereignty, legal certainty, and interests of the receiving state.
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