Ratifiointikirja

Ratifiointikirja, often translated as a letter of ratification or instrument of ratification, is a formal document that signifies a state's consent to be bound by a treaty. It is a crucial step in the international legal process of bringing a treaty into force for a particular country. Once a treaty has been negotiated and signed by authorized representatives of the states involved, it typically requires further internal approval before it becomes legally binding. This internal approval process varies by country but often involves parliamentary or legislative consent.

The ratifiointikirja is the official instrument by which a state communicates its final consent to be bound to the other parties of the treaty, or to a designated depositary, such as the Secretary-General of the United Nations. The content of a ratifiointikirja is usually straightforward, confirming the state's intention to adhere to the treaty and often referencing the specific treaty by its title and date. It is typically signed by the head of state or government, or by a minister with the appropriate authority.

The exchange or deposit of these instruments of ratification is a key event that often triggers the treaty's entry into force, either for all parties or for a specified number of states. Without a formal ratifiointikirja, a state that has signed a treaty is not legally obligated to comply with its provisions. Therefore, the ratifiointikirja serves as a definitive declaration of a state's commitment to upholding its treaty obligations.