The Concept of Ratification of Treaties and Protocols in Public International Law and Their Non-Binding Effects on Developing Countries' Sovereignty: A Case Study of Pakistan

Abstract

International treaties and protocols are a dilemma for developing nations like Pakistan. Hence, this study evaluates their ratification under public international law. Ratification, a rigorous process of approving a treaty, often fails due to domestic and global issues. Poor nations like Pakistan have greater challenges due to low economic resources, institutional competence, and political resolve. This study uses doctrinal and qualitative methods to evaluate legal texts, international treaties, and secondary sources to determine ratification and compliance criteria. Case studies explore Pakistan's human rights, environmental, and trade treaty experience. Geopolitics and domestic restraints hinder Pakistan's treaty compliance and execution gap. Pakistan's strategic location, ties to key nations, and geopolitics influence its treaty practices. Pakistan's international compliance is affected by national security and regional issues in the case study. The paper suggests supporting emerging states with international support and flexible ways and aligning ratification and implementation.