The Corfu Agreement: A Historical Agreement that Shapes Modern International Law

The Corfu Agreement, also known as the Protocol of Corfu, is a significant historical document that shaped modern international law. Signed on August 27, 1914, by the representatives of the seven great powers of Europe, the agreement outlined the steps that the signatories would take to preserve the neutrality of Albania during World War I.

The signatories of the Corfu Agreement were France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Austria-Hungary, Germany, Russia, and the Ottoman Empire. The agreement was necessary because of the strategic importance of Albania, which bordered Greece and Serbia, two countries that were already at war. The agreement was also significant because it was the first time that the great powers of Europe came together to negotiate a peaceful settlement.

The Corfu Agreement consisted of fourteen articles that outlined the terms of the agreement. The most important articles were Article 7 and Article 8. Article 7 stipulated that the great powers would respect the independence and territorial integrity of Albania and guarantee its neutrality during the war. Article 8 stated that the great powers would ensure that Albania`s ports and territories would not be used by any belligerent power.

The Corfu Agreement was successful in preserving the neutrality of Albania during World War I. However, the agreement was violated by some of the signatories, which led to the occupation of Albania by Italy in 1939.

Despite its limitations, the Corfu Agreement remains a significant historical document that influenced modern international law. The principles outlined in the agreement, such as the respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, have become fundamental principles of international law.

Moreover, the Corfu Agreement was an important precursor to the creation of the League of Nations, which was established after the end of World War I to promote international cooperation and prevent future wars. The League of Nations was instrumental in the development of the modern system of international law.

In conclusion, the Corfu Agreement is a significant historical document that shaped modern international law. The agreement was necessary to preserve the neutrality of Albania during World War I and outlined the principles that have become fundamental to international law. Although the agreement had its limitations, it was an important precursor to the creation of the League of Nations, which established the modern system of international law.