Features of old and new diplomacy
Here are the key features of old diplomacy and new diplomacy:
Old Diplomacy (Traditional Diplomacy)
Features:
- Formalism: Diplomacy was conducted through formal channels, such as ambassadors, embassies, and diplomatic missions.
- State-centric: Diplomacy focused on the interests of states, with little attention to non-state actors like NGOs, corporations, or individuals.
- Secretive: Diplomatic negotiations were often conducted in secret, with little transparency or public involvement.
- Bilateral: Diplomacy was primarily conducted on a bilateral basis, with states negotiating directly with each other.
- Hierarchy: Diplomacy was characterized by a hierarchical structure, with powerful states exerting influence over weaker ones.
- Formal treaties: Diplomatic agreements were often formalized through treaties, which were negotiated and signed by governments.
- Limited scope: Diplomacy was primarily focused on issues like territorial disputes, trade agreements, and alliances.
New Diplomacy (Contemporary Diplomacy)
Features:
- Informalism: Diplomacy is increasingly conducted through informal channels, such as personal relationships, phone calls, and social media.
- Multilateralism: Diplomacy is now often conducted through international organizations, such as the United Nations, the European Union, and the G20.
- Non-state actors: Diplomacy involves a wider range of actors, including NGOs, corporations, and individuals, in addition to states.
- Transparency: Diplomatic negotiations are often more transparent, with greater public involvement and scrutiny.
- Multidisciplinary: Diplomacy now involves a broader range of disciplines, including economics, environmental science, and human rights.
- Issue-based: Diplomacy is increasingly focused on specific issues, such as climate change, human rights, and global health.
- Networked: Diplomacy is characterized by a networked structure, with states, organizations, and individuals working together to address global challenges.
- Adaptive: Diplomacy is more adaptive and responsive to changing circumstances, with a greater emphasis on flexibility and creativity.
- Digital diplomacy: Diplomacy is increasingly conducted online, through social media, email, and other digital channels.
- Global governance: Diplomacy is now focused on developing global governance structures and institutions to address global challenges.
Overall, new diplomacy is characterized by a more inclusive, adaptive, and issue-based approach, with a greater emphasis on transparency, multilateralism, and non-state actors.