The Diplomatic Profession
Functions of Diplomacy
The Evolution of Diplomacy
Diplomacy and Coalition-Building
Is Diplomacy in Decline?
What is Diplomacy?
Diplomacy is a
means or process that helps states to realise their national goals. It involves
communication and discussion, and often involves the act of ‘give and take’.
Diplomatic
Career
Today’s professional diplomats are typically
selected from among the most talented elites in a society.
Functions of
Diplomacy
Evolution of
Diplomacy
1. Structure
The
present global diplomatic system had its origins in fifteenth century Italy
when permanent embassies were first established.
2. Process
Diplomacy
heralded a regularised process of state interaction involving a series of
rights, privileges and immunities.
3. Sustance
Historically, the diplomatic
agenda has steadily widened and deepened with the expansion of the society of
sovereign states
Diplomacy and Coalition-Building
Diplomacy is not merely
bilateral. It can be channelled through
coalitions and mixed with other policy instruments such as military force. The
international coalition put together by President Bush (senior) during the Gulf
War, 1990-91, involved a massive diplomatic effort. Using a combination of
carrots and sticks, President Bush used UN backing to assemble an anti-Saddam
coalition consisting of 36 countries to reverse the consequences of the Iraqi
invasion of Kuwait.
Is the role of Diplomacy in decline?
While the IT revolution has
expanded channels of communication between state and non-state
actors beyond the work of professional diplomats, their essential function in a
fast moving international system remains as relevant as ever. Diplomacy still
rests on the creative combination of verbal and non-verbal communication.