What is the signature of the Convention?
The first step in becoming a party to the Convention is signing the treaty. States and regional integration organizations (RIO) may sign the Convention or Optional Protocol. A State or RIO may sign the Convention at any time. By signing the Convention or Optional Protocol, States or RIOs indicate their intention to take steps to be bound by the treaty at a later date. Signing also creates an obligation, in the period between signing and ratification, to refrain from acts that would defeat the object and purpose of the treaty.
