
Diplomacy is the art and practice of negotiation and dialogue between states, groups, or people to influence the international system's decisions, events, and behaviours. It is a tool used to advance a country's interests in the international arena and to resolve conflicts. There are several types of third-party diplomacy, including public diplomacy, economic diplomacy, cyber diplomacy, humanitarian diplomacy, and migration diplomacy. Public diplomacy focuses on interacting with foreign citizens to develop bonds and influence public opinion through cultural, economic, and educational exchanges. Economic diplomacy uses economic tools such as trade, investment, and development assistance to achieve foreign policy objectives. Cyber diplomacy employs digital technology and communication to facilitate international relations and address global issues such as cybersecurity. Humanitarian diplomacy involves negotiating the presence of humanitarian organizations and advocating for broader humanitarian goals. Migration diplomacy, according to Myron Weiner, recognizes the link between international migration and states' foreign relations. These are just a few examples of the various types of third-party diplomacy employed by nations to pursue their interests and resolve conflicts.
Characteristics and Values of Third-Party Diplomacy
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Negotiations and bargaining | International dialogue and cooperation |
| Mediation by outside parties | Conflict resolution and prevention |
| Impartiality and incentives | Peace and stability |
| Information gathering | Mutual understanding |
| Public diplomacy | Transparency and soft power |
| Digital diplomacy | Use of digital tools and technology |
| Economic diplomacy | Trade, investment, and development assistance |
| Humanitarian diplomacy | Intervention and protection of civilians |
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What You'll Learn

Bilateral diplomacy
The importance of bilateral diplomacy has increased due to the current crisis of multilateralism. Countries strengthen their foreign objectives through these diplomatic engagements, which also lay the groundwork for building coalitions in regional and multilateral settings. The strength of a country's bilateral connections directly impacts its global standing.
A country's ''first circle' of priorities includes a group of countries that are vital to its interests, and with whom most bilateral dealings occur. Bilateral diplomacy is subject to various factors, including the different actors involved, such as official and non-state agencies, and the expanding range of topics in modern international dialogue. Countries may also use certain instruments to exert pressure on each other. International networking by public institutions is highly valuable, as it increases a country's global presence and enhances its reputation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) oversees the diplomatic network, managing embassies, consulates, and permanent missions. The MFA's overseas network is crucial for effective coordination with the country's non-official agencies. Bilateral diplomacy is enhanced by participation in regional and multilateral frameworks, which provide a country with more opportunities to pursue its interests and address challenges.
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Multilateral diplomacy
In multilateral diplomacy, each country involved in the negotiations has its own interests and objectives. Successful multilateral diplomacy requires finding common ground and reaching agreements that address the interests of all parties. This can be challenging, as each country may have differing priorities and motivations. It is essential to build alliances and foster cooperation to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome.
In addition to conflict resolution, multilateral diplomacy is essential for fostering economic cooperation and development. Countries can use economic instruments such as trade agreements, investment treaties, and development assistance to advance their interests and promote international cooperation. Multilateral economic diplomacy can lead to economic growth, job creation, and stronger diplomatic ties between nations.
Furthermore, multilateral diplomacy can take advantage of modern digital technologies to facilitate international relations. Cyber diplomacy, for instance, utilises digital tools such as social media, websites, and online platforms to engage in diplomatic dialogue, build relationships, and address global issues such as cybersecurity and data privacy. This form of diplomacy allows countries to connect and collaborate more efficiently, fostering a more interconnected world.
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Public diplomacy
One of the most effective ways to increase mutual understanding is through people-to-people exchange programs. These programs allow individuals from different countries to interact and learn from each other, fostering a sense of common interests and values. This, in turn, can lead to better international relations and cooperation.
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Economic diplomacy
Third-party diplomacy can take many forms, including economic diplomacy, humanitarian diplomacy, and migration diplomacy. Economic diplomacy is a critical aspect of a country's foreign policy and involves a wide range of activities aimed at promoting a country's economic growth and national interests.
For example, Brazil's economic diplomacy strategy includes the Brazilian Cooperation Agency (ABC), which negotiates and coordinates technical cooperation projects with developing countries. Similarly, China has used economic diplomacy during its economic rise, employing trade and incentives to accumulate soft power.
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Cyber diplomacy
One of the significant challenges in cyber diplomacy is the international nature of cyber threats. Tracing and prosecuting hackers is difficult because cyber-attacks can originate from anywhere globally. The lack of a unified international agreement on what constitutes a cyber-attack and how to respond further complicates international cooperation on cybersecurity. Additionally, cyber-attacks can be politically motivated, aiming to disrupt elections or incite societal unrest, making it hard to distinguish between criminal and political cyber assaults.
To address these challenges, cyber diplomacy employs various tools and strategies. For instance, Bug Bounty programmes encourage individuals to report security vulnerabilities by offering rewards. These programmes bridge the gap between vulnerability discoverers and vendors, allowing for a Coordinated Vulnerability Disclosure (CVD) process. They also help curb the proliferation of malicious ICT practices by preventing the stockpiling of vulnerabilities. Additionally, cyber diplomacy involves promoting universal access to the internet and empowering women and girls in policy development and internet use. It also includes supporting third countries in improving their citizens' access to information and communication technology (ICT) and securing their online activities.
Furthermore, cyber diplomacy can benefit from Track 1.5 diplomacy, which involves engaging non-governmental professionals and organisations in cyber negotiations. This approach provides unbiased viewpoints and helps bridge gaps between governments, especially when neutral third-party mediators facilitate dialogue and steer conversations towards practical solutions.
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Frequently asked questions
Third-party diplomacy involves enlisting outside mediators such as the United Nations, to lead negotiations between two other parties. Outsiders can bring impartiality and help reach deals by proposing incentives.
There are several types of third-party diplomacy, including:
- Public diplomacy: Emphasises interaction with foreign citizens to develop bonds and influence public opinion.
- Economic diplomacy: Uses economic tools such as trade and investment to achieve foreign policy objectives and promote international cooperation.
- Cyber diplomacy: Utilises digital technology and communication to facilitate international relations and address global issues such as cybersecurity.
- Humanitarian diplomacy: Involves negotiating the presence of humanitarian organisations and advocating for broader humanitarian goals.
Third-party diplomacy involves a neutral party assisting two other parties in reaching a compromise or agreement. This can be done by proposing incentives and facilitating dialogue. The goal is to find a common interest and prevent conflict.
Third-party diplomacy can help prevent conflicts from escalating, foster international cooperation, and protect national interests. It provides a peaceful alternative to the use of force or underhanded means in statecraft.

























