Brian White on diplomacy

White presents a broad picture on the changing nature of diplomatic protocols. Originally, it served as a ‘channel of communication’ between state-state, ‘diplomacy’ constituted a bilaterally based and exclusive network. Contemporary diplomacy on the other hand, has advanced into an ‘inclusive’ system, incorporating greater assortment of entities; today, diplomacy can be regarded as a complex and ‘fragmented’ network, indicating the degree of multitude of actor’s interactions. ‘New diplomacy’ incorporates onto its agenda fresh concerns over ‘economic, social, environment, arms control, welfare’, all of which classify under ‘low politics’. Today’s diplomatic affair engages in a wide spectrum of concern, thus requiring specialized actors assigned to tackle up-to-the-minute issues.

States as White indicates, no longer hold the governing seat in the house, their ‘sovereignty’ are frequently under intimidation and the likelihood of barter. New entities such as international organisations, translational corporations as well as, non-governmental organisations are gradually taking up substantial roles within the field in order to achieve their desired ends. Non-state actors possess an overwhelming ability to influence state’s interests and decisions; whether via manipulation or propaganda, these non-governmental entities are slowly but surely renovating the very essence of world affairs.

Diplomacy as the author describes, can be regarded as a tactic/skill sought in order to secure certain agreements; via means of ‘persuasion’, in order to reach a point of ‘compromise’ are some of the vital skills with diplomatic conduct.

However, ‘pure diplomacy’ is not always the adequate measure to obtain specific ends, and here is where the resort of ‘mixed diplomacy’ steps onto stage. ‘Mixed-diplomacy’ involves the application of intimidation, pressure, or threats in order to reach certain ends. The usage of ‘propaganda’ or involvements in intelligence activities is also equivalent to a type of ‘mixed diplomacy’; they are ‘option’ sought to influence foreign societies as well as their governments.

White draws attention on the additional roles of ‘consular services’, not only do they support and protect home citizens whom reside abroad, but they are also assigned tasks associated with the host state’s ‘trade and commerce’ relations. Furthermore, embassies have recently been evaluated based on their abilities to ‘boost home export promotion’ and strengthening trade transactions.

All in all, the role of ‘diplomacy’ has transformed into a highly demanding job, they gather information for their home state; represent their state abroad; role as negotiators; provide consular service abroad as well as, promote trade and export for their home country.