
The term 'new diplomacy' refers to the evolving nature of diplomatic interactions in the contemporary global landscape. While the concept of diplomacy is not new, the term 'new diplomacy' describes the transformation in diplomatic practices driven by various factors such as technological advancements, digitalisation, globalisation, and the rise of non-state actors. New diplomacy began to be observed in the 1990s, amidst easing tensions post-Cold War and streamlined communication among activists in the burgeoning Internet age. It is characterised by a more integrated approach to international concerns, with citizens playing a greater role in global policymaking. The spread of democracy has also created a greater sense of expectation in policymaking, and the power of ideas and how they are communicated has become more important than economic and military power. International law is a moving target, and new diplomatic methods are enacting a new global politics into international law.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nature of diplomatic interactions | Evolving |
| Factors driving transformation | Technological advancements, digitalization, globalization, rise of non-state actors |
| Role of citizens | Greater |
| Role of governments | Reduced |
| Issues addressed | Human rights, humanitarian assistance, labor rights, environmental issues, fair trade |
| International law | More of a moving target |
| Consensus-based approach | Replaced with straight vote of nations |
| Global economy | More integrated approaches to international concerns |
| Spread of democracy | Greater sense of expectation in policymaking |
| Role of private humanitarian organisations | Increased |
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What You'll Learn
- Greater citizen involvement in international relations
- The emergence of new actors, such as NGOs, parliaments, and regional authorities
- The role of spouses in diplomacy
- Technological progress and its impact on diplomatic practices
- The diversification of diplomacy, including issues like climate and health

Greater citizen involvement in international relations
The concept of diplomacy has evolved with the changing global landscape, driven by factors such as technological advancements, digitalization, globalization, and the rise of non-state actors. This evolution has brought about a new form of diplomacy, referred to as "new diplomacy," which involves greater citizen involvement in international relations.
Under the traditional diplomacy model, global policymaking was primarily the domain of governments. However, with the advent of the internet and streamlined communication, citizens now play a more active role in shaping international affairs. This shift towards "new diplomacy" began in the 1990s, as the world emerged from the Cold War and activists leveraged the internet to advocate for various causes.
In this new era of diplomacy, citizens and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have become key players in addressing global issues. They are no longer passive observers but active participants, advocating for human rights, humanitarian assistance, labor rights, environmental protection, and fair trade. This shift is exemplified by campaigns such as the effort to end South African apartheid and the Save Darfur movement.
The "new diplomacy" also reflects the changing nature of international leadership. While economic and military power were once the primary determinants of a country's influence, the power of ideas and their communication has become increasingly important. This shift has empowered citizens and NGOs to drive policy change and shape global agendas, even in the face of resistance from traditional state actors.
Furthermore, the globalization of the world economy has led to more integrated approaches to international concerns. The spread of democracy has fostered a sense of expectation and entitlement among citizens regarding policymaking. As a result, international law and diplomacy are becoming more responsive to the diverse interests and values of citizens worldwide.
In conclusion, "new diplomacy" represents a significant shift towards greater citizen involvement in international relations. Citizens and NGOs are now key drivers of change, advocating for their values and interests on the global stage. This evolution in diplomacy has empowered individuals and communities to shape the world around them, marking a departure from the traditional state-centric model of global policymaking. Diplomacy, as a tool of foreign policy, has thus become more inclusive and responsive to the diverse voices and aspirations of citizens worldwide.
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The emergence of new actors, such as NGOs, parliaments, and regional authorities
The term "new diplomacy" refers to the evolving nature of diplomatic interactions in the contemporary global landscape. While the concept of diplomacy itself is not novel, the term "new diplomacy" describes the transformation in diplomatic practices driven by factors such as technological advancements, digitalization, globalization, and the rise of non-state actors.
NGOs, in particular, have played a crucial role in new diplomacy. They are highly committed to specific outcomes and work within compressed time frames. This approach differs from traditional international agreement development, which aims for unanimity or broad consensus. NGOs are passionate about their agendas and are willing to accept less national participation to maintain the integrity of their proposals. Their vision is reflected in their requirement for a two-thirds majority vote rather than a consensus.
Parliaments and regional authorities have also become more involved in diplomacy. The increasing importance of these actors can be attributed to the need to address global issues that transcend national boundaries, such as human rights, humanitarian assistance, labor rights, environmental concerns, and fair trade. These issues often require collaboration and coordination between national and regional authorities, as well as the involvement of legislative bodies.
The emergence of new actors in diplomacy has led to a more diverse and complex diplomatic landscape. It has provided opportunities for innovative approaches, fresh perspectives, and increased citizen participation in global policymaking. However, it has also presented challenges, including the need to navigate differing interests and priorities among various actors and ensure effective coordination and consensus-building in a more crowded diplomatic arena.
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The role of spouses in diplomacy
In the past, diplomatic spouses were primarily responsible for promoting their nation's identity and engaging in entertainment aspects of representation. This traditional role is exemplified by the example of the EU corps in Brussels, where spouses participated in symbolic activities that suppressed national differences in favour of a common European ideal. However, with the evolution of diplomacy, the importance of national identity promotion has diminished, and officers' busy schedules have reduced the need for spouses' involvement in representational entertaining.
The transformation in diplomatic practices, driven by technological advancements, digitalisation, globalisation, and the rise of non-state actors, has also influenced the role of spouses. The spread of democracy and the increasing expectation of citizen participation in policymaking have contributed to a shift in international leadership dynamics. As a result, the power of ideas and their communication have become more critical than solely economic and military power. This new diplomacy has led to innovative approaches in international relations, impacting the roles and activities of diplomatic spouses.
To acknowledge the constraints and challenges faced by spouses, some foreign services are introducing measures to redefine their roles and incorporate them into services more professionally. For instance, the British Service now allows spouses of Heads of Mission to claim compensation for hours spent in residence management, recognising their contributions beyond symbolic representation. This trend represents a more modern and professional incorporation of spouses into diplomatic services, utilising their skills and experiences as valuable resources.
The spouses of diplomats often lead nomadic lives, requiring them to adapt to new environments and cultures with each move. They navigate the challenges of maintaining their own identities, passions, and careers while supporting their partners and representing their countries. Many diplomatic spouses are educated and talented individuals who make significant contributions beyond their official roles. Their experiences, resilience, and dedication are essential to the success of their partners' careers and the advancement of international relations.
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Technological progress and its impact on diplomatic practices
Technological progress has had a significant impact on diplomatic practices, transforming the way diplomacy is conducted in the contemporary global landscape. The advent of the internet and digitalisation has streamlined communication and facilitated the emergence of new actors and practices in the diplomatic arena.
The internet has played a pivotal role in shaping the new diplomacy by enabling activists, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and citizens to engage in global policymaking and international relations. This marks a shift from traditional diplomacy, where governments held the reins of power. The internet has empowered activists and NGOs to mobilise support, coordinate campaigns, and exert influence on a global scale, as exemplified by the campaign to end South African apartheid and the Save Darfur movement.
Digital technologies have also enhanced the speed and efficiency of diplomatic interactions. Diplomats can now communicate instantly with their counterparts around the world, facilitating rapid information exchange and decision-making. Additionally, digital platforms and social media have provided new channels for diplomatic engagement, allowing diplomats to connect with a wider audience and foster mutual understanding between nations.
The integration of intelligence and diplomacy is another significant development. The use of strategic intelligence disclosures played a pivotal role in enabling the US and its allies to respond to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This success has heightened expectations and interest in leveraging intelligence to support diplomatic objectives. However, it has also raised concerns about potential misuse, underscoring the need for rigorous guidelines to safeguard responsible intelligence diplomacy.
Furthermore, technological advancements have contributed to the rise of new actors in the diplomatic sphere. The private sector, humanitarian organisations, and non-state actors have increasingly become involved in addressing global challenges. For instance, the financial crisis in Asia witnessed the significant role of private humanitarian organisations in mitigating the impact of weak state structures. These actors bring unique expertise and resources to the table, shaping diplomatic practices and international relations.
In conclusion, technological progress has revolutionised diplomatic practices by empowering citizens and non-state actors, enhancing communication, and integrating intelligence into diplomacy. These changes have led to a more inclusive, dynamic, and complex diplomatic landscape, presenting both opportunities and challenges for traditional diplomacy in the 21st century.
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The diversification of diplomacy, including issues like climate and health
The concept of diplomacy is evolving with the changing global landscape. Diplomacy is no longer limited to national governments and heads of state; it now involves a diverse range of actors, including CEOs, local governments, journalists, think tanks, NGOs, lobbyists, and online activists. This diversification reflects the expanding individual and group perspectives, as well as the increasing ethnic, national, religious, and political diversity of societies.
One notable aspect of this diversification is the growing inclusion of issues like climate change and health in diplomatic agendas. Climate change, in particular, has become a significant concern in international relations. Climate-fragility risk briefs, such as the one for Mali, outline the linkages between climate change and security, highlighting the impact of climate shocks on vulnerable populations, especially those facing marginalization and inequality. Climate diplomacy aims to address these challenges and build resilience through initiatives like the Climate Security Expert Network.
Health has also emerged as a key diplomatic issue. The COVID-19 pandemic, for example, has brought to the forefront the importance of global health collaboration and coordination. Diplomacy has played a crucial role in facilitating information exchange, developing international health regulations, and promoting equitable access to healthcare and vaccines. Additionally, health issues like food insecurity, human rights violations, and inadequate basic services are increasingly recognized as integral to diplomatic efforts.
The diversification of diplomacy is further influenced by technological advancements and digitalization. The internet and digital platforms have empowered activists and citizens to engage in diplomatic efforts, contributing to the emergence of "new diplomacy." This new diplomacy emphasizes the role of citizens and civil society in international relations, challenging the traditional domain of governments in global policymaking.
The changing nature of diplomacy also reflects the globalization of the world economy and the spread of democracy. Policymaking is influenced by a diverse range of ideas and communication strategies, and international leadership is no longer solely determined by economic and military power. The diversification of diplomacy, therefore, encompasses not only the issues being addressed but also the expanding range of actors and the evolving approaches to international relations.
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Frequently asked questions
Old diplomacy refers to the traditional system of international relations where global policymaking was strictly controlled by governments. New diplomacy, on the other hand, involves citizens playing a greater role in policymaking.
New diplomacy can be seen in the campaign to end South African apartheid, the Save Darfur movement, humanitarian assistance, labour rights, environmental issues, and fair trade.
New diplomacy is driven by factors such as technological advancements, digitalisation, globalisation, and the rise of non-state actors. It also involves a more integrated approach to international concerns, with a focus on consensus-building and the power of ideas.

























