Legal Definitions - protecting power

A protecting power is a neutral country that takes on the responsibility of looking after the citizens and interests of another country when that country is unable to do so itself. This usually happens during an armed conflict between two nations or when two countries have completely severed their diplomatic relations. The protecting power acts as an intermediary, ensuring that the nationals of the country it represents are treated humanely and that their rights are upheld in the territory of the opposing or estranged nation. This role often involves visiting prisoners of war, facilitating communication, and providing consular services. For a country to serve as a protecting power, its role must be accepted by all involved parties. If an agreement cannot be reached, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) may step in to fulfill this function.

• Example 1: During an Armed Conflict
  When the nations of Veridia and Kaelen enter into an armed conflict, Solara, a neutral third country, agrees to act as the protecting power for Veridian citizens residing in Kaelen, as well as for any Veridian soldiers captured as prisoners of war. Solara's diplomats would visit internment camps to monitor the conditions of Veridian POWs, ensure they receive proper medical care, and facilitate communication between them and their families. They would also provide consular assistance to Veridian civilians in Kaelen, such as helping with emergency travel documents or relaying messages to their home government. This illustrates how Solara protects Veridia's citizens and interests when Veridia cannot directly engage with Kaelen due to the conflict.

• Example 2: Following a Suspension of Diplomatic Ties
  After a severe political dispute, Ruritania and Zembla completely suspend all diplomatic relations, closing their respective embassies and consulates. However, many Ruritanian students and business professionals are still living and working in Zembla. Eldoria steps forward and is accepted by both Ruritania and Zembla to serve as the protecting power for Ruritanian nationals. Eldoria's embassy in Zembla would then handle essential consular services for Ruritanian citizens, such as issuing emergency passports, assisting with legal matters, or helping those who wish to return home, effectively acting as Ruritania's diplomatic representative in Zembla.

• Example 3: Protecting Economic Interests
  Atlantis and Olympus experience a profound breakdown in relations, leading to a complete freeze in governmental communication, though not outright war. Atlantis has significant investments and several large manufacturing facilities operating within Olympus. To safeguard these economic assets and ensure their fair treatment under Olympus's laws, Terra Nova is designated as the protecting power for Atlantis's interests. Terra Nova's representatives would monitor the operations of the Atlantean factories, ensure that their property rights are respected, and act as a channel for communication between Atlantean corporate entities and the Olympian government, thereby protecting Atlantis's economic interests in a hostile environment.