http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diplomatic_immunity http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diplomatic_immunity -- "Diplomatic immunity as an institution developed to allow f

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diplomatic_immunity http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diplomatic_immunity -- "Diplomatic immunity as an institution developed to allow for the maintenance of government relations, including during periods of difficulties and even armed conflict. When receiving diplomats—who formally represent the sovereign—the receiving head of state grants certain privileges and immunities to ensure they may effectively carry out their duties, on the understanding that these are provided on a reciprocal basis. Originally, these privileges and immunities were granted on a bilateral, ad hoc basis, which led to misunderstandings and conflict, pressure on weaker states, and an inability for other states to judge which party was at fault."