Diplomacy is the artful management of international relations, including communication, negotiation, empathy and tact that allow for the smooth exploration of differing interests toward the mutually agreed resolution of conflicts. It can be coercive but is mostly nonviolent, and its primary tools are international dialogue and negotiation — conducted by accredited ambassadors or envoys (from the French word meaning “one who is sent”) and other political leaders.
While the global landscape may have shifted since 2024, the latest version of DiploFoundation’s Global Diplomacy Index shows that diplomatic networks remain robust and that great powers are still leading the way. However, some countries have reduced their presence in certain regions due to domestic or geopolitical concerns.
During this time of rising tensions, it is more important than ever to understand the power of diplomacy. Diplomacy is more than a set of tools used by government officials, it’s the art of understanding different cultures and adapting your own communication style.
Great diplomats humbly and respectfully engage with their counterparts, always staying professional but never acting like tenured, out-of-touch professors lecturing their peers. They also have a sense of direction in their conversations, knowing what points they need to raise from their lists and when.
On the other hand, poor diplomats bore their audiences and make everyone dread their encounters. They hammer the same point over and over, never making any progress on an issue. They’re a pain to be around, and they should be removed from their positions.
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