Visiting Forces Agreement: A Brief Overview
A Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) is a bilateral agreement between two countries that sets out the terms under which military personnel from one country can legally operate in the other country. These agreements are often entered into by countries with close military ties or as part of a broader strategic partnership. They are particularly common between the United States and other countries around the world. Recently, the Philippines` decision to terminate its VFA with the United States has generated significant controversy.
The History of the Visiting Forces Agreement
The first Visiting Forces Agreement was signed by the United States and the United Kingdom in 1942. This agreement was designed to facilitate the deployment of US troops in the UK during World War II. Since then, many other countries have entered into similar agreements with the United States and with each other.
The purpose of these agreements is to establish a legal framework that ensures that military personnel from one country do not violate the laws of the host country while carrying out their duties. This includes ensuring that the host country has the ability to prosecute any crimes committed by visiting military personnel. The agreement also sets out the terms under which visiting military personnel can operate in the host country, including provisions related to access to military bases, provisions for the transport of military equipment, and rules governing the conduct of military exercises.
The Controversy over the Philippines` Decision to Terminate its VFA with the United States
In February 2020, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte announced his intention to terminate the Visiting Forces Agreement with the United States. Duterte cited a range of reasons for his decision, including his belief that the agreement was no longer in the best interests of the Philippines and that it was time for the country to assert its independence.
The decision to terminate the VFA has generated significant controversy, both within the Philippines and internationally. Proponents of the agreement argue that it is essential for maintaining the strong military ties between the two countries and that it provides an important deterrent against potential threats in the region. Opponents of the agreement argue that it undermines Philippine sovereignty and that it has been used as a tool to further US strategic interests in the region.
Conclusion
The Visiting Forces Agreement is an important tool for countries looking to maintain strong military ties with one another. While these agreements often come with controversy, they are intended to provide a legal framework that ensures that visiting military personnel operate within the law and do not violate the sovereignty of the host country. The recent decision by the Philippines to terminate its VFA with the United States highlights the complexities and controversies that surround these agreements, but it also underscores the importance of having clear and mutually acceptable rules governing military cooperation between countries.