2 Plus 4 Vertrag Pdf

The Zwei-plus-Vier-Vertrag, also known as the Treaty on the Final Settlement with Respect to Germany, is a landmark agreement that paved the way for German reunification in 1990. It's crucial for understanding Germany's current standing in international law and its relationship with other nations. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the treaty, its key provisions, and its enduring significance.

What is the Zwei-plus-Vier-Vertrag?

The Zwei-plus-Vier-Vertrag (literally "Two Plus Four Treaty") was negotiated in 1990 between the two German states, the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany) and the German Democratic Republic (East Germany), and the four Allied powers of World War II: the United States, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, and France. The treaty officially granted full sovereignty to a unified Germany, ending the rights and responsibilities held by the Allied powers over Berlin and Germany as a whole since the end of World War II.

Key Provisions of the Treaty

The treaty comprises several essential components, each addressing crucial aspects of Germany's future and its role in Europe. Here's a breakdown of the most important provisions:

1. Border Confirmation

Article 1 of the treaty definitively recognized Germany's borders. Most importantly, it reaffirmed that the Oder-Neisse line constituted the definitive border between Germany and Poland. Germany explicitly renounced any territorial claims beyond this line. This settled a long-standing issue that had been a source of tension in post-war Europe.

"The united Germany shall comprise the territory of the Federal Republic of Germany, the German Democratic Republic and the whole of Berlin. Its external borders shall be the borders of the Federal Republic of Germany and the German Democratic Republic on 3 October 1990 and shall be definitive."

2. Renunciation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

Germany committed to renouncing the manufacture, possession, and control of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons. This commitment helped allay concerns about a potentially re-militarized Germany and contributed to regional stability.

"The Government of the united Germany shall confirm to the Governments of the States Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons its binding renunciation of the manufacture and possession of and control over nuclear, biological and chemical weapons."

3. Reduction of Armed Forces

Germany pledged to reduce its armed forces to 370,000 personnel within a timeframe of three to four years. This measure was designed to ensure that Germany's military capacity remained defensive and did not pose a threat to its neighbors.

"The Governments of the united Germany undertake to reduce the armed forces of the united Germany to 370,000 within three to four years. This reduction will commence on the entry into force of this Treaty."

4. No Deployment of Foreign Armed Forces in the Former GDR

Initially, the treaty restricted the deployment of foreign armed forces (excluding Soviet forces during the transition period) and nuclear weapons on the territory of the former German Democratic Republic. This clause acknowledged the unique circumstances of the former East Germany and sought to address Soviet concerns about NATO expansion.

This provision was time-limited in practical terms. With the withdrawal of Soviet forces, this restriction ceased to have any real effect. A united Germany, enjoying full sovereignty, had the right to decide on the deployment of foreign forces on its entire territory.

5. Full Sovereignty

The most significant outcome of the Zwei-plus-Vier-Vertrag was the restoration of Germany's full sovereignty. The Allied powers relinquished all rights and responsibilities related to Germany, effectively ending their occupation and allowing Germany to act independently in international affairs. This removed any remaining legal limitations stemming from World War II.

"Upon the entry into force of this Treaty, the rights and responsibilities of the Four Powers relating to Berlin and to Germany as a whole, as set out in Part 4 of the Quadripartite Agreement of 3 September 1971 and in other relevant agreements, decisions and practices, are terminated and all related Four Power institutions are dissolved. As a result, the united Germany shall have full sovereignty over its internal and external affairs."

6. Commitment to Peace

Germany reaffirmed its commitment to peace and its adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter. This emphasized Germany's intention to be a responsible member of the international community.

In essence, the Zwei-plus-Vier-Vertrag did the following:

Officially ended World War II for Germany from a legal perspective.
Returned full sovereignty to Germany.
Determined and secured Germany’s external borders.
Limited Germany's military capabilities.
Ensured that Germany would remain a peaceful nation, integrated into the European Community and NATO.

Why is the Zwei-plus-Vier-Vertrag Important?

The Zwei-plus-Vier-Vertrag holds immense historical and political significance. Here's why it remains relevant today:

Foundation for Reunification: The treaty provided the legal framework for the reunification of Germany. Without it, the unification process would have been significantly more complex and potentially contentious.
End to Post-War Era: It marked the definitive end of the post-World War II era in Europe. The removal of Allied powers' rights and responsibilities cleared the path for a new chapter in European history.
Security and Stability: By addressing concerns about German military capabilities and territorial ambitions, the treaty contributed to stability in Europe. The commitments to peace and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction fostered trust and cooperation.
Germany's Role in Europe: The treaty enabled Germany to become a key player in the European Union and a respected member of the international community. It allowed Germany to fully participate in shaping European policy and addressing global challenges.
Precedent for Peaceful Resolution: The negotiation and signing of the Zwei-plus-Vier-Vertrag demonstrated that complex international issues can be resolved peacefully through diplomacy and cooperation.

Who Were the Key Players?

Several individuals played crucial roles in the negotiation and signing of the Zwei-plus-Vier-Vertrag:

Helmut Kohl: The Chancellor of West Germany, who championed the cause of reunification and played a central role in the negotiations.
Hans-Dietrich Genscher: The Foreign Minister of West Germany, who led the German delegation in the negotiations and skillfully navigated the complex diplomatic landscape.
Lothar de Maizière: The Prime Minister of East Germany, who represented the interests of the East German population and contributed to the unification process.
James Baker: The United States Secretary of State, who played a key role in facilitating the negotiations and ensuring the support of the US government.
Eduard Shevardnadze: The Soviet Union's Foreign Minister, who worked with the other parties to find common ground and reach a mutually acceptable agreement. His willingness to consider the possibility of German reunification was groundbreaking.
Douglas Hurd: The United Kingdom's Foreign Secretary, who represented the UK's interests and contributed to the final agreement.
Roland Dumas: The French Foreign Minister, who ensured that French concerns about German reunification were addressed.

Accessing the Text of the Treaty

The full text of the Zwei-plus-Vier-Vertrag is available in German and English, as well as the languages of the other signatory nations. The text can be found online on the websites of the German Foreign Office (Auswärtiges Amt) and various international law databases. Searching for "Zwei-plus-Vier-Vertrag PDF" or "Treaty on the Final Settlement with Respect to Germany PDF" will provide access to downloadable versions.

Conclusion

The Zwei-plus-Vier-Vertrag remains a pivotal agreement in modern history. It not only facilitated the reunification of Germany but also reshaped the political landscape of Europe. By understanding the treaty's provisions and its historical context, one can gain a deeper appreciation of Germany's role in the world today. It represents a successful example of international cooperation that helped transition Europe from a Cold War division to a period of greater integration and stability. The treaty's enduring legacy is a testament to the power of diplomacy and the importance of peaceful conflict resolution.