Persona Non Grata
Persona non grata is the formal designation by which a receiving state declares that a diplomatic agent is no longer acceptable. The receiving state may make the declaration without explaining its decision, after which the sending state is expected to recall the person or end that person's functions with the mission.
The term is governed in bilateral diplomatic relations by the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. It can apply before arrival or during a posting. If the sending state does not act within a reasonable period, the receiving state may refuse to recognize the person as a member of the mission. The phrase is also used informally in public language, but its diplomatic meaning is specific.
A persona non grata declaration is a serious diplomatic measure that can signal protest, respond to alleged misconduct or incompatible activity, or form part of a wider deterioration in relations. Because such decisions often attract immediate media attention, ministries must coordinate legal, political, operational, security, protocol, and public-communication functions carefully.
Persona non grata declarations appear in diplomatic expulsions, reciprocal measures, espionage disputes, serious bilateral incidents, alleged interference, sanctions-related tensions, and cases in which a receiving state withdraws acceptance of a diplomatic agent.
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