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Full-Text Articles in International Humanitarian Law
The Atypical International Status Of The Holy See, Matthew N. Bathon
The Atypical International Status Of The Holy See, Matthew N. Bathon
Vanderbilt Journal of Transnational Law
The Holy See, as personified by the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, has acquired significant international status over the centuries. In modern times it has not always been clear whether this status arises from the Holy See's status as head of the Church or as ruler of the tiny State of Vatican City. Some view the Holy See's unique international status as an exception to the general rule that only states participate in international affairs. The Holy See has acquired such recognition and authority primarily because of its long-standing involvement in world affairs over the last thousand years. Others …