trattato

Trattato is an Italian noun with two principal meanings. In international law, it denotes a formal written agreement between states or international organizations that creates binding rights and obligations for the parties. In a scholarly or literary context, trattato also designates a comprehensive written work on a subject, akin to a treatise.

From Latin tractatus, derived from tractare, meaning to handle or treat.

In international law, a trattato is a contract of mutual consent negotiated by sovereign entities. It is generally concluded by negotiation, signed by the authorities, and subject to ratification or accession in order to enter into force. The terms are interpreted according to the treaty text and applicable law, with the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties providing broadly accepted rules on interpretation, amendment, and termination.

Treaties can be bilateral (between two states) or multilateral (among many). They may address peace, security, trade, environmental protection, cultural exchange, or human rights, and can be regional or global in scope. Notable examples include the Treaty of Rome (1957), which established the European Community; the Paris Agreement on climate change; and various bilateral investment or trade accords.

In the sense of a scholarly treatise, trattato refers to a systematic, authoritative work treating a subject in depth, such as a trattato di diritto or trattato di filosofia. The term implies thorough analysis and extensive bibliography.