Eleanor Finch
Diplomacy is a complex and multifaceted concept, encompassing a range of formal and informal interactions between nations, governments, and non-state actors. While traditional diplomacy involves official negotiations between governments, the field has evolved to include various tracks that engage a diverse array of participants, from academics to policymakers to private citizens. This evolution gave rise to the concept of multi-track diplomacy, which recognises the interconnected nature of international relations and the important role of non-governmental actors in conflict resolution and peacemaking. Track 1 diplomacy, or traditional official diplomacy, involves direct dialogue between government representatives, while Track 1.5 diplomacy refers to situations where official and non-official actors collaborate. Track II diplomacy, coined by American peace activist Joseph V. Montville, focuses on conflict resolution through improved communication and understanding between citizens. Over time, the concept of Track II diplomacy has expanded into nine distinct tracks, each contributing to peacemaking through different avenues such as commerce, personal involvement, advocacy, and media. These tracks provide flexibility, allowing for relationship-building, idea exchange, and the exploration of solutions that can feed into official Track 1 processes.
Characteristics and Values of Multi-Track Diplomacy
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of Tracks | 9 |
| Track 1 | Government, or Peacemaking through Diplomacy |
| Track 1.5 | Official and non-official actors working together to resolve conflicts |
| Track 2 | Non-governmental/professional, or Peacemaking through Conflict Resolution |
| Track 3 | Business, or Peacemaking through Commerce |
| Track 4 | Private Citizen, or Peacemaking through Personal Involvement |
| Track 8 | Funding, or Peacemaking through Providing Resources |
| Track 9 | Communications and the Media, or Peacemaking through Information |
| Other Characteristics | Unofficial, flexible, open-minded, altruistic, strategically optimistic, relationship-building, problem-solving, outcome-driven |
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What You'll Learn
Track 1 diplomacy
The term "Track 1 diplomacy" was coined by American peace activist Joseph V. Montville in 1981. He distinguished it from Track II diplomacy, which involves non-governmental, informal, and unofficial conflict resolution efforts. Track 1 diplomacy is characterised by its official nature, with participants engaging in structured and formal interactions. This form of diplomacy is often associated with official posturing and adheres to the traditional view of diplomacy as a government-to-government interaction.
One key aspect of Track 1 diplomacy is its focus on peacemaking through formal governmental processes. It aims to achieve conflict resolution, treaty negotiations, and policy-making through official channels. This track involves high-level political and military leaders, diplomats, and heads of state who represent their respective nations in discussions. Track 1 diplomacy follows established protocols and procedures, ensuring that negotiations are conducted within a formal framework.
While Track 1 diplomacy is essential for maintaining official relationships between nations, it has been noted that it may not always be the most effective method for resolving complex conflicts. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the limitations of traditional diplomacy, particularly in protracted civil wars and transnational security challenges. As a result, there has been an increasing trend towards incorporating Track 1.5 and Track 2 dialogues into diplomatic strategies.
Despite the emergence of these additional tracks, Track 1 diplomacy remains pivotal in international relations. It provides a platform for governments to engage directly and negotiate agreements with a level of authority that unofficial tracks lack. Track 1 diplomacy sets the framework within which other tracks operate and is necessary for finalizing agreements and implementing solutions proposed through Track 1.5 and Track 2 efforts.
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Track 1.5 diplomacy
One example of Track 1.5 diplomacy is the China-U.S. Strategic Nuclear Dynamics Dialogue, facilitated by a nonprofit policy research organization. This dialogue brought together think tank experts, retired officials, and active government and military officials from both countries, enabling them to engage in "frank and candid" discussions on nuclear issues. By creating a space for open conversation, Track 1.5 diplomacy can help broaden the scope of conversations, facilitate better understanding, and explore new ideas that can later feed into official Track 1 negotiations.
The increasing use of Track 1.5 diplomacy reflects the changing geopolitical climate and the growth of non-governmental organizations interested in global affairs. With the world becoming more interconnected, informal discussions can help foster cooperation and address complex global challenges. Track 1.5 diplomacy provides a flexible framework that complements traditional diplomacy and contributes to peacebuilding efforts.
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Track 2 diplomacy
Track II diplomacy, also known as Track 2 diplomacy, refers to the practice of non-state actors using conflict resolution tactics to improve communication and foster understanding between conflicting groups. This form of diplomacy operates through non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and universities, and it complements official Track I diplomacy, also known as traditional diplomacy, which involves governmental negotiations between nations.
Track II diplomacy is unofficial, unstructured, open-minded, altruistic, and strategically optimistic. It is based on the assumption that conflicts can be resolved or eased by appealing to common human capabilities for goodwill and reasonableness. Examples of Track II diplomacy include workshops, conversations, and scientific and cultural exchanges. The Oslo Accords of 1993 between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) is a successful example of Track II diplomacy, as it began as an unofficial initiative by a Norwegian scholar and led to significant breakthroughs in the Israeli-Palestinian relationship.
Track II diplomacy provides unofficial spaces and flexible settings for conflict resolution practitioners and theorists to test ideas and shape relationships. It allows for a deeper understanding of positions and perceptions, as experts outside of government can share their independent and personal views. This form of diplomacy is particularly useful when official Track I talks break down or when there is a need to explore new ideas and strategies.
Track II diplomacy is not a substitute for Track I diplomacy but rather assists official actors in managing and resolving conflicts. It compensates for the constraints imposed on leaders by psychological expectations and helps bridge the gap between conflicting groups. The methods and individuals involved in Track II diplomacy are still evolving, and it often involves academics, policymakers, and other experts who are familiar with their respective governments' positions.
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Track 3 diplomacy
The business sector has the means and resources to facilitate peacebuilding through various mechanisms. For example, businesses can provide financial support and investment in communities affected by conflict, helping to rebuild infrastructure and create economic opportunities. Additionally, businesses can promote cultural exchange and understanding by partnering with local businesses or organisations in conflict-affected regions.
Another aspect of Track 3 diplomacy is the role of businesses in providing informal channels of communication. Businesses often have established relationships and connections with various stakeholders, including governments, non-governmental organisations, and local communities. They can utilise these networks to facilitate dialogue, exchange information, and build trust between conflicting parties. This is especially valuable when official diplomatic channels are strained or non-existent.
Furthermore, Track 3 diplomacy recognises the potential for businesses to contribute to conflict prevention and resolution. By promoting economic interdependence and mutual benefits, businesses can create incentives for peace and stability. Additionally, businesses can help address the root causes of conflicts, such as poverty, inequality, or lack of access to resources, by investing in sustainable development and promoting ethical practices throughout their supply chains.
In conclusion, Track 3 diplomacy highlights the important role of the business sector in international peacemaking efforts. By engaging in commerce-related activities, businesses can contribute to conflict resolution, foster international friendship, and support other peacemaking initiatives. Through economic opportunities, informal communication channels, and a focus on sustainability, businesses can play a pivotal role in building a more peaceful and prosperous global community.
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Track 8 diplomacy
The funding provided by these entities enables various initiatives, such as conflict resolution programs, peacebuilding projects, and educational campaigns, to be implemented effectively. It empowers organizations and individuals working towards conflict resolution by providing them with the necessary resources to carry out their activities. This includes funding for personnel, infrastructure, research, and other operational costs associated with peacemaking endeavors.
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Frequently asked questions
Track 1 diplomacy refers to official diplomacy, where communication and negotiations are directly between or among governments. These formal discussions are conducted by diplomats, heads of state, and other official authorities.
Track 1.5 diplomacy occurs when government representatives and non-governmental experts engage in dialogue or meetings together in less formal ways than Track 1 diplomacy. It provides a valuable channel for policymakers to continue sharing views in a private and unofficial setting.
Track 2 diplomacy refers to purely unofficial channels for dialogue and conflict resolution between non-governmental experts, without direct governmental involvement. It provides flexible settings to test ideas and shape relationships outside of the constraints of formal negotiations.
