Award in regard to the validity of the Treaty of Limits between Costa Rica and Nicaragua of 15 July 1858, decision of 22 March 1888

Validity of treaty of delimitation – unconstitutionality of ratification process – statement in the Constitution of Nicaragua that the boundary is on the Southeast, the Costa Rica State, is not precise enough preclude further frontier delimitation – defects in ratification process – irregularities and defects in the formalities of ratification may be remedied by subsequent acquiescence in and approval of the treaty – the fact of approval being established, the time of approval is immaterial, provided the other party by its acquiescence has seen fit to waive the delay – acquiescence during several years in the validity of the treaty is a strong evidence of the contemporaneous exposition which has ever been thought valuable as a guide in determining doubtful questions of interpretation, even if such acquiescence is not a substitute for ratification by a Legislature – Nicaragua cannot seek to invalidate the treaty on any mere ground of irregularity in the order of its own proceedings.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions