Modus vivendi (pluralmodi vivendi;Latin pronunciation:[ˈmɔ.dʊswɪˈwɛn.dɪ]) is aLatin phrase that means "mode of living" or "way of life". Ininternational relations, it often is used to mean an arrangement or agreement that allows conflicting parties to coexist in peace. In science, it is used to describelifestyles.[1]
Modus means "mode", "way", "method", or "manner".Vivendi means "of living". The phrase is often used to describe informal and temporary arrangements in political affairs. For example, if two sides reach amodus vivendi regarding disputed territories, despite political, historical or cultural incompatibilities, an accommodation of their respective differences is established for the sake ofcontingency.
Indiplomacy, amodus vivendi is an instrument for establishing an international accord of a temporary or provisional nature, intended to be replaced by a more substantial and thorough agreement, such as atreaty.[2]Armistices and instruments ofsurrender are intended to achieve amodus vivendi.
The term often refers toAnglo-French relations from the 1815 end of theNapoleonic Wars to the 1904Entente Cordiale.[citation needed]
On 7 January 1948, the United States, Britain and Canada, concluded an agreement known as themodus vivendi, that allowed for limited sharing of technical information on nuclear weapons which officially repealed theQuebec Agreement.[3]
