Diplomacy and Politics
According to Merriam-Webster’s dictionary,“diplomacy is the art and practice of conducting negotiations between nations and handling affairs without arousing hostility.” However, diplomacy is much more than this short definition, because it expands and encapsulates a long array of affairs and issues that need diplomacy to be resolved. The art of negotiating is the pivotal power of diplomacy in order to resolve disputes and crises, sign treaties, agreements and promote economic relations and also foster cultural relationships between nations. It is known that diplomatic relations between nations play an important role in the world today and contribute to bringing the world closer together, avoid tensions and enable better communication and cooperation. In many cases, it is often through the tool of diplomacy that critical conflicts and wars have been avoided by means of diplomacy. An entity that expresses the meaning of diplomacy is the United Nations Organization (UNO) which stands for the ideals of democracy and the human values that is guarantor for world peace and cooperation. However, in recent years it has lost its reputation and needs to restore its identity and worldwide acceptance.
Diplomacy cannot be limited to simply conducting negotiations to achieve an agreement or resolve a problem. Diplomacy is the art of bringing together two parties that need a mediator in order to start dealing with each other and come together. Diplomacy is refined language, tactfulness, empathy, common understanding, willingness to listen to the other party, accept the rules and readiness to make concessions in order to achieve a higher goal like peace. “These, then, are the qualities of my ideal diplomatist. Truth, accuracy, calm, patience, good temper, modesty and loyalty. They are also the qualities of an ideal diplomacy. But, the reader may object, you have forgotten intelligence, knowledge, discernment, prudence, hospitality, charm, industry, courage and even tact. I have not forgotten them. I have taken them for granted.” Harold Nicholson
We can easily say that diplomacy begins at home because it is always a means of persuasion, reconciliation and agreement. Parents can apply this tactic sweetened by love and care. If we are willing to avoid conflict and confrontation, we need to apply such tactics and do it with honesty and sincere interest. Never hurt the other party is always a prerequisite to create the conditions which will enable dialogue. “A world without dialogue is a universe of darkness. If people don't get together and share views and exchange ideas, they remain unaware, ignorant, and unconscious. As they live in a space that they don't understand, everything becomes meaningless, incoherent, and forcefully scary. If fear rules our lives, we lose the core of our being, since 'fear' is disrupting the schedule of our existence, and blocks the waves of the good vibrations. ("Beware of the neighbour")”― Erik Pevernagie. Diplomacy without dialogue is like a beautiful tree without fruits. Communication is essential and the beginning of a relationship regardless of the level; starting from the individual, societal or international affairs. Therefore, diplomacy and communication are the vehicles to improve and promote sound dialogue and negotiations which are the warrant to avoid conflict and war and establish peace between two parties. Along with dialogue, there should be the willingness to open up and break the ice.
Diplomacy without dialogue is like a beautiful tree without fruits. Dialogue and communication are the tools to create a bond, a relationship, and if that fails, there is division and no bridge to connect the two parties. Therefore diplomacy and good will can offer solutions and assistance. One needs to be well equipped with the right attitude and disposition and eliminate any selfish and egocentric mindset in order to win the trust of the other party and be convincing as a good partner. As it is known attitudes affect partners and in diplomacy especially we need to approach the other side with honesty and deep understanding. Crucial decisions have lasting effects and some moments in life can create permanent impact for long periods when dealing with peace issues. (Where people of goodwill get together and transcend their differences for the common good, peaceful and just solutions can be found even for those problems which seem most intractable). — Nelson Mandela
Human beings are the most sensitive beings, and it often takes only an awkward or clumsy word or action to damage a relationship. Therefore, we need to use a method which can create a good atmosphere and good fellowship, and it is there where diplomacy and good will become increasingly evident that above all we are here for a supreme cause and we are accountable to bring it to pass. For this to happen, we need to transcend our limits and overcome our fears in terms of our narrow scope of world or national affairs. If we want to make an omelette we need to break the eggs, therefore we shouldn’t be hesitant to stride forward with absolute determination and decisiveness.
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