Is diplomatic immunity a good thing ?

Question

Should diplomatic immunity be used as a license to flout domestic jurisdiction ?

Answer 1

Not really.  Diplomatic immunity not only applies to those in the diplomatic corp, but also to any relative, servant, employee that they bring along.

There needs to be some restrictions.

Also, there needs to be equality: don't allow their entourage more immunity than they allow ours.

Answer 2

For a simple thing like speeding so what but if you commit a felony I would think they could be prosecuted for this crime against humanity. If it is a crime in your own country then you should be held accountable for it in any country you are in.

Answer 3

Yes, it is a good thing.  Many countries in the world do not have fair justice systems (corruption, bribery, etc. are common).  So without diplomatic immunity foreigners would not be able to work in those countries.

Answer 4

Yes, it enables international relations. Diplomats visiting the US and EU don't need it per se, but what if you were visiting a country like Zimbabwe which doesn't allow differing political views? Its for those countries that we have diplomatic immunity.  

Don't think that just because somebody has diplomatic immunity that means they aren't held accountable. A country can waiver their diplomats' immunity if they have committed a serious crime, like murder. Or they can face serious sanctions in their own country. Most diplomats respect the laws of their host country (okay, maybe not parking).