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The New Diplomacy

ISBN: 978-0-745-62789-2

December 2002

Polity

160 pages

Description
The world of international relations has changed radically in the last few years. Technological, social and political change have combined to undermine the traditional assumptions of diplomacy – in particular, the events of 11 September set in stark relief the risks and dangers.

Shaun Riordan, a former British diplomat, draws on his own experience, case studies, and current debates in international relations to assess the performance of diplomatic services and to sketch out the new diplomatic environment. Traditional diplomatic services and structures are found wanting.

Riordan argues forcibly against realpolitik and for a more pro-active diplomacy based on the promotion of ideas and values as a better way of securing the West's long-term interests. In doing so, he presses for radical re-structuring of diplomatic services, replacing hierarchical with networked structures, and the creation of new forms of global governance that incorporate NGOs and the private sector, as well as government officials, in a broader diplomatic effort.

About the Author
Director of the Madrid-based consultancy companies, ZEIA and New Forum Millenium. Former British Diplomat
Features

Former British diplomat, Shaun Riordan, argues for a radical re-structuring of diplomatic services.

Riordan draws on his own experience, case studies, and current debates in international relations to assess the performance of diplomatic services and finds them wanting.

Examines the roles of new players, both governmental and non-governmental, and makes a case for the private sector taking on many traditional functions of embassies.

Argues forcibly against realpolitik and for a more pro-active diplomacy based on the promotion of ideas and values as a better way of securing the West's long-term interests.