Diplomacy has changed massively in the past century. Many notice the differences between the “old” and the “new” diplomacy. However, many aspects of old diplomacy are still present in the new era. Secrecy, spies, ceremonies are some of the characteristics present in “old” diplomacy and that are present today.
During the past century, secrecy in international relations has been constant present since societies were formed. Civilizations negotiated in secret to achieve a deal sometimes to avoid confrontation with others therefore this feature has always been present in diplomatic negotiations since anyone can remember. Secrecy is one of the main pillars of the “old” diplomacy, but is it present in the “new” diplomacy? We are all aware that states hide information related to negotiations made with other states or organizations, this usual happens because “each side will have to settle for less than its ideal requirements” (Berridge, p. 110). Secrecy is not only involved in international negotiations but also in events “not so positive” for national interest and international reputation. Recently, in the last few months we have heard about Wikileaks which has been revealing documents regarding Iraq War. Lately they released a movie in which the U.S. army, supposedly, executes Iraqi civilians.
Nevertheless, espionage is also present within contemporary world affairs. This practise is very common since biblical times. Though this is not a commented subject by politicians, it is well known the presence of spies in countries around the world. Not long ago, in July, there were a spy swap between Russia and US. Particularly during the Cold War this was a very common method of retrieving information about a country, especially US and Russia.
Another permanent factor in diplomacy is ceremony. This has been constantly present in diplomatic negotiations, obviously it was given more importance during “old” diplomacy whereas “Ceremonial was used to burnish a prince’s prestige, flatter his allies, and solemnize agreements” (Berridge, p. 110). in modern times, despite of being less important for negotiations between states, the “ceremonial aspect (...) makes the multilateral summit ‘real’ to the general public”. (Melissen, p. 16)
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For the previous aspects of diplomacy which still remain present today. I believe it is possible to argue that there is not a “old” or “new” diplomacy, but there is a EVOLVED diplomacy within diplomatic relations.
References
Berridge, G. R. (2010) Diplomacy Theory and Practice, 4th Ed
Melissen, J. (unknown) Discussion Paper in Diplomacy: Summit Diplomacy Coming of Age
Others: some parts where referenced with links to webpages
It is true that to some extent, secrecy is still an unavoidable part of diplomacy whether it is old or new. Secrecy can have either positive or negative impacts on diplomatic negotiations between states.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that the contemporary diplomacy is just an evolved version of the traditional diplomacy.