saatkonnad

Saatkonnad are diplomatic missions of a country located in foreign states. The term most commonly refers to embassies in the host country’s capital, but it also encompasses related missions such as consulates in other cities. A typical embassy is led by an ambassador, and in some circumstances a chargé d’affaires may head the mission. The plural form saatkonnad denotes the set of such missions belonging to a country abroad.

The operations of saatkonnad are governed by international law, notably the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961. Embassies and their staff enjoy certain privileges and immunities. The host state must protect the mission and its premises, which are considered inviolable; diplomats have immunity from much of the host country’s jurisdiction while carrying out official duties. These privileges are intended to facilitate discreet and persistent diplomacy, though they come with responsibilities and limits.

Core functions of saatkonnad include representing the sending state and its interests, maintaining political dialogue with the host government, and reporting on political, economic, and social developments. They work to promote friendly bilateral relations, negotiate on behalf of their government, and coordinate various forms of cooperation. Consular sections within embassies or separate consulates handle visa issuance, assist nationals abroad, provide emergency help, and manage civil registrations, such as passports and birth records.

In practice, saatkonnad form the primary on-the-ground network through which countries interact with foreign governments and societies, supporting diplomacy, citizen services, and cultural and economic exchange.