---
title: "Consensus Decision Rule Definition | Model Diplomat"
description: "A consensus decision rule adopts a measure when no member objects. It's key for diplomatic discussions and avoids majority voting complications."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/consensus-decision-rule"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- A consensus decision rule adopts a measure only when no participating member formally objects, without resort to a counted vote or numerical majority threshold.
- How does consensus differ from unanimity?
- Which major institutions use the consensus decision rule?
- Why does China favour consensus in multilateral forums?
- What is the principal criticism of the consensus rule?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

A consensus decision rule adopts a measure only when no participating member formally objects, without resort to a counted vote or numerical majority threshold.

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At the 2012 ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Phnom Penh, the consensus rule produced no joint communiqué for the first time in the bloc's history after Cambodia blocked language on the South China Sea disputes.

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