The Evolution of Diplomacy

It is difficult to say what is the most significant change in the nature of diplomacy. Because it is still a matter of debate. However, one may argue that the emergence of non state actors is the most significant change in the nature of diplomacy.

In early days, diplomacy was a matter for elite aristocrats representing states. These state actors used diplomacy as a tool to protect their own national interests. Arguably, it is partly the same reason why diplomacy is used by the state actors. But in later part of twentieth century, there has been enormous growth of Non Governmental Organisations and their numbers are still growing. Many of these organisations are dedicated to solving many different socio-economic problems that states are dealing with too. In addition to finding common causes to deal with, rapid growth in communication technologies have made it easier for state and non state actors to interact. Due to these factors, NGO’s now have growing ability to influence decision making and thus gradually it has made significant change in the nature of diplomacy.

However, the emergence of non state actors may be the most significant change in the nature of diplomacy, but there are other significant changes. Many of these changes relate to the process of diplomacy. The old diplomacy can be characterised as secretive, bilateral and matter of high politics. Although some of these features remain to some extent today, the new diplomacy can be characterised as open, multilateral and matters of low politics.