Glossary beginning with S
S
- Signature
-
The signature of a treaty is an act by which a State provides a preliminary endorsement of the instrument. Signing does not create a binding legal obligation but does demonstrate the State’s intent to examine the treaty domestically and consider ratifying it. While signing does not commit a State to ratification, it does oblige the State to refrain from acts that would defeat or undermine the treaty’s objective and purpose.
Source: United Nations
- Site
-
See "Archaeological site"
- Smuggling
-
Act of importing or exporting a (cultural) good without paying lawful customs charges or duties.
Source: Encyclopedia
- Spoil (of war)
-
The removal of artworks and other cultural property during armed conflicts or military occupation, including the objects seized as war reparation.
Source: Arthemis, Art-Law Centre, University of Geneva
- State immunity
-
The principle of international law according to which a State enjoys immunity, in respect of itself and its property, from the jurisdiction of the courts of another State.
Source: Arthemis, Art-Law Centre, University of Geneva
- State party
-
A State party to a treaty is a country that has ratified or acceded to that particular treaty, and is therefore legally bound by the provisions in the instrument.
Source: United Nations
- State responsibility
-
The accountability of a State for the commission of a wrongful act, which may consists of an action or omission in breach of an international obligation of the State, such as the violation of a multilateral or bilateral treaty.
Source: Arthemis, Art-Law Centre, University of Geneva
- Statute of limitation / Time limitation (time limit)
-
A domestic law establishing a temporal limit for bringing a legal action; after the expiry of the period specified in the statute any action is barred.
Source: Arthemis, Art-Law Centre, University of Geneva