Article 51

/ˈɑrtɪkəl ˈfɪfti-wʌn/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A provision in the United Nations Charter recognizing the inherent right of individual or collective self-defense if an armed attack occurs against a UN member until the Security Council acts.
    Article 51 of the UN Charter permits a state to defend itself if attacked before international forces intervene.

Forms

  • article 51

Commentary

Article 51 must be understood within the framework of international law, particularly regarding lawful self-defense and the limitations imposed until Security Council authorization.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

Draft confidently with Amicus

Create, negotiate, and sign agreements in one secure workspace—invite collaborators, track revisions, and keep audit-ready records automatically.

Open the Amicus app