leppisid

Leppisid are formal instruments through which two or more subjects of international law establish, modify, or terminate legal obligations among themselves. In practice, they cover bilateral and multilateral arrangements and regulate relations in areas such as peace and security, trade and investment, borders, environment, science, and culture. The term is used in Estonian to denote treaties or agreements codified in international law.

Legal framework and features. Most leppisid are governed by international law and may be subject to general rules codified in instruments such as the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (1969), to the extent applicable. A typical treaty includes a preamble, definitions, operative provisions, and clauses addressing entry into force, duration, amendments, and termination. Many leppisid allow reservations, designate a depositary for instruments of ratification or accession, and specify how disputes should be settled, for example through negotiation, arbitration, or adjudication. Domestic law often requires formal approval or ratification before a treaty becomes binding on a country.

Formation and operation. Leppisid arise from negotiations between states or international organizations, followed by signature and, in most cases, ratification by participating states. The treaty usually enters into force on a specified date or upon meeting defined conditions. Over time, parties may amend or денounce the treaty, subject to its terms. Disputes about interpretations or breaches may be addressed through dispute settlement mechanisms provided in the treaty or through other lawful means.

Notable examples. Historical and contemporary leppisid include peace treaties, non-aggression pacts, trade and cooperation agreements, and environmental frameworks. In Estonia, the Tartu rahuleping (1920) is a recognized example of a bilateral treaty shaping international relations.

See also. Tartu rahuleping; international law of treaties; treaty dispute settlement.