It was still a question of whether there was anything new in so-called new diplomacy, but from recent seminars it has become much more clear that there has been developments, improvements and new aspects.
To begin with , multilateral and conference diplomacy has certainly emerged as an important factor in diplomacy . It is basically a number of conferences and meetings attended my more than three states at the same time. It is differentiated from the bilateral diplomacy were only two parties were involved and both had to reach an agreement if one resisted than the negotiation failed. By contrast , multilateral diplomacy provides the best chance for an effective and successful negotiations by giving them an opportunity to make decisions by majority voting. A good instance of this would be the general assembly within the UN. Moreover, the post-Cold war multilateralism is characterised by more complex agendas of conferences and negotiations with large number of issues and the growing involvement of experts , citizens groups and NGO's. This inclusive forms of diplomacy are very important to maintain global peace and security. For instance the USA has an agreement with over hundred countries on crime solving process. If an american citizen commits a crime and flees to other country , that country's authorities will send the criminal back to USA for the required punishment and that goes same for the USA.
Over the past years NGO's have played and increasingly influential role in international negotiations mainly on enviromental issues, but how far can they go , after all they are not elected bodies. However, non-governmental organisations like Greenpeace can really be of big help in tackling environmental problems especially with its worldwide precense.
Many would say, the globalized world we live in today have increasingly brought new challenges to diplomacy , but with all these new improvements and developments the new diplomacy is making a way forward.
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I agree with you that the increased inclusiveness is essential and that multilateral fora are good areans for negotiation - however I believe that it has its limits as plenary assemblies often are used to 'rubber-stamp' agreements. Nevertheless, it remains a crucial component of diplomacy in the globalised world that we live in. In terms of the influence of NGOs I agree that they play an influential role, however, i do question how 'new' that actually is....as NGOs, individuals etc have always been able to influence decision-makers within the bureaucracy...which several cases over the years have depicted like in the case of China-lobby and AIPAC just to mention a few....However, overall I agree with you.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you on the point that the inclusiveness we witness at UN multilateral conferences is important. I am not sure though that they are more effective than bilateral agreements because of the fact that they can reach decisions by the use of majority voting. I think there is a basic problem with the concept of majority voting, as it, in a world with such a large number of states, risks alienating powerful minorities. Hence, despite the fact that a decision was reached because a majority of states voted in favour of a proposition, there might not be the necessary backing for the agreement if it is to be effectively carried out.
ReplyDeleteI see that you mentioned two very important aspects of New Diplomacy, which are shaping the way Diplomacy is conducted. But in my opinion you have not mentioned on very important process of New Diplomacy, which is Public Diplomacy. It promotes country’s policies, values, culture, and helps to reduce negative sentiments towards the country, in the foreign public. The 9/11 events confirmed the importance of Public Diplomacy. The other aspect of Public Diplomacy is that it is conducted through the soft power, and helps to fight terrorism. US cannot stop terrorism only through the military means and it must exercise Public Diplomacy.
ReplyDeleteYou make some very adequate points on how multilateral conferences offer a good chance for states to agree on some issues. However,there is a kickback to these conferences.As far as I am aware, these meetings are often "accompanyed" by non state actors, such as pressure groups and NGOs. The presence of these organizations can put pressure on the actors which can lead to premature decisions.Also,I am missing public diplomacy from your entry. I believe that multilateral diplomacy is important, public diplomacy is playinga higher role especially after 9/11 and the war on terror.
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