Luther v Sagor (Recognition of new governments)

Luther v Sagor (Recognition of new governments)

Global Affairs Academy
Aug 29, 2026

In this international law case, the British courts had to determine the status of actions taken by the Bolshevik government in Russia (nationalising certain goods) where that conduct occurred after the government took power, but before it was recognised by the British Government. The court found that the recognition could be made retroactive.