Can anyone deny the great importance of diplomacy in the today’s world? No, I do not think so. It is also impossible to maintain indifferent to achievements which it made reachable. Despite the numerous changes it underwent, I believe that it is extremely difficult to consider it to be absolutely flawless.
For ages, diplomacy had been a perfect means of pursuing one’s interests. Political leaders wanted to gain as much as possible for their country from two- party relationships. A narrow agenda created perfect conditions for development of state to state agreements.
Today, it seems that diplomacy is more open. It encourages every state to get involved in international cooperation and contribute to its improvement. No party can be rejected and no issue is ought to be neglected. Still, does it really reflect our reality? You may mention both UN, UE and many other international organizations. On the one hand, I would agree but on the other hand.. aren’t they a little superficial? Yes, these organizations made hundreds of states express their opinions without a fear, as well as, expound on various problems. Even though some measures have been taken to solve particular issues, results are not so apparent. The big community engaging many members will always face animosity. Some states will never place the common good above their own interests. Therefore it is extremely hard to demand unconditional obedience from everyone. That is why, I think that carrying out diplomacy did not go through any dramatic changes. I would rather say that the general rules changed but the selfishness which has always been permanent in politics, remained the same.
The fact that there take place conferences about various aspects concerning our presence in the world strongly contribute to international integration. What is more, the lack of secrecy proves a mutual call for comprehension and progression of relationships among countries. Although I do believe that today’s diplomacy is not about gaining power any longer, it seems to me that those crucial decision in world’s order are influenced by the leading states. Nevertheless, it is not only the politicians that take part in decision-making processes but also celebrities and non-governmental organizations. More and more problems are discussed in public. The media has become an influential creator of opinion, too.
To conclude the above remarks, I need to say that I am an opponent of the changes which are taking place at the moment. They may be very fundamental in the future of world politics. However, I do realize that some of them are conducted to satisfy public opinion. The most important agreements of high politics will never be available for democratic control.
You make some valid points in this entry on the changing nature of diplomacy. However, you discuss these issues in very broad terms with little attention to the academic debates on the subject. You tend to assert your opinions rather than providing reasons and evidence. And it isn't clear how the image you provide is related to your text.
ReplyDeletePerhaps you can try to focus your thoughts a little more on what you take to be the most significant development in the evolution of diplomatic practice and provide some illustrations and references to support your claims.