What is the difference between signing and ratifying the Protocol?
At the closing date for signature i.e. 4 June 2001, the Protocol has had 103 signatures. When a country signs the Protocol, this indicates general support for the objective and provisions of the Protocol, as well as that country’s intention to become party to the Protocol at one stage in the future and be legally bound by it. However, the Protocol does not become legally binding until a country ratifies the treaty by depositing an instrument of ratification, accession, acceptance, or approval with the United Nations signed by the head of State or Government or the minister for foreign Affairs. Once a country ratifies the Protocol, it enters into force for that country ninety days later provided the Protocol itself has already entered into force at that time; at this point the country is bound by the provisions of the Protocol and must comply with the obligations therein (see also “When does the Protocol enter into force?”).
