The fact that states wishing to ratify a multilateral treaty can enter a reservation to one or more of the terms of that treaty or make a declaration regarding interpretation of one or more treaty provisions has helped to promote the acceptance of multilateral treaties in international relations.

Provide examples of when Australia's use of a reservation and/or interpretive declaration has been useful in fulfilling Australia's diplomatic aims in the international community.Can you think of any occasion when Australia's use of a treaty reservation or interpretive declaration has been harmful to Australia's diplomatic interests?