(5) Tree Line

The PTBT
is certainly no haiku
but come on, it's short

The authors have a nice habit of repeating long phrases and names, which cuts down on the length in its own way. They also have an annoying habit of sometimes using difficult language that we're going to call "treaty talk." Treaty talk basically means that the document is written in the language of international law, which is itself a form of legalese.

It's difficult at times to determine exactly who or what the text is referencing because it uses phrases like "entry into force" and "instrument of ratification." If you find yourself getting caught up in these details, take a moment to check out the following resources: the handy-dandy glossary of treaty terms provided by the United Nations along with our very own detailed "Summary" section of the PTBT, which will translate that treaty talk into real talk for you.