Treaty

A treaty may be called a convention, agreement, protocol, pact, or exchange of notes; the name is usually not decisive. It creates rights and obligations for its parties and is interpreted according to international law. Treaties may be bilateral or multilateral and may require ratification, approval, or other domestic procedures before a state is bound. In Switzerland, important treaties often involve parliamentary approval and, in defined cases, a referendum possibility. Once in force, treaties can influence administrative action, courts, and legislation.