Diplomacy is the art of managing relationships — whether between governments or friends — by communicating, negotiating, and mediating with tact. This can be done through formal channels, such as international negotiations and summits; back-channel or secret communications; or informal exchanges like cultural and sports events. In international relations, diplomacy is a critical component of achieving global peace and security and encouraging socio-economic progress. In personal domains, it helps fortify relationships and foster a shared sense of camaraderie even among people of largely divergent views.
At the heart of diplomacy lies communication, negotiation, and empathy. The best diplomats are comfortable with speaking in a manner that respects their counterparts and avoids sounding too “official” or “lecturish.” They can read their counterparts well, knowing what points to raise and when. They also know when to pull back and let their peers talk.
The best diplomats keep their own interests in mind, too, promoting their state’s objectives and maintaining goodwill toward it. They are able to balance the use of pressure tools — cyber disruptions, sanctions, legal offensives — with political resolution, keeping escalation in check and avoiding full-scale war.
Diplomacy is a continuous process, not a one-time event. The diplomatic arts are continuously evolving, and it’s important to keep up with new trends, developments, and tactics in the field. Whether you’re a career diplomat or not, it’s helpful to understand the changing world of diplomacy and how these changes can impact your own approach.