Diplomacy consists of the formal and informal exchanges that take place among the world’s nations in the pursuit of their national goals. These exchanges are shaped by power dynamics and philosophical underpinnings. Understanding them reveals why diplomatic processes unfold as they do, and underscores the deep challenges of reaching global sustainability goals.
The classic tools of diplomacy are dialogue, negotiation and agreements – sometimes tacit, but more often formalized in letters, protocols, accords and treaties. These are a vital part of the fabric of international relations, and their success depends heavily on building trust – a process that is slow, fragile and easily shattered by perceived betrayal or inconsistency.
Large-scale diplomacy involves the organizing and conducting of international conferences or summits, attended by dozens of leaders to discuss trade issues, migration or border issues, or environmental problems. These events are also a key part of diplomatic relations, and require the same skills as a bilateral meeting.
Smaller-scale diplomacy typically involves sending and receiving envoys from each other, with the most-senior of these envoys being a minister plenipotentiary. The most powerful states tend to prefer bilateral methods, and are more confident of their own ability to negotiate with a single other state than with multiple others.
Diplomats must understand a host country’s language, culture and traditions in order to have an impact on the relationship between two countries. This can foster a sense of partnership between the two, and transfer that to their citizens, who may become more engaged with each other as a result.