What is the term for the avoidance of prosecution granted by international law?

The term "immunity" refers to the legal protection from prosecution that certain individuals or entities enjoy under international law. This concept is particularly relevant in the context of diplomats and state officials, who may be shielded from legal action in foreign jurisdictions to ensure that they can perform their duties without interference or fear of legal reprisal. Immunity does not absolve individuals of legal responsibility but provides them with protections that allow them to carry out their roles effectively.

In international relations, this principle helps maintain diplomatic and political relationships by allowing diplomats to represent their countries without the risk of arrest or legal challenges in the host country. The broader concept often includes various types of immunity, such as sovereign immunity, which protects states from being sued in foreign courts, and diplomatic immunity, specifically shielding diplomats. Understanding immunity is essential for grasping how international legal frameworks operate, especially regarding the conduct and rights of individuals in diplomatic scenarios.