Introduction

In this chapter, the author sets the stage for the consideration of the issue of mistake of fact. The author starts by laying down the political and moral difficulties associated with this concept in the context of interstate relations. Then, the author describes de notion of mistake of fact, distinguishing it from mistake of law, and sets out some initial theoretical implications concerning the formation and legal effect of mistakes. Finally, the author describes the structure of the book and its purpose: to attempt defining a unified ‘law of mistake’ in the international law of State responsibility.