New Diplomacy

Abstract

New diplomacy is a term which has been used both politically and analytically since the French Revolution. It was introduced as a positive contrast to the old diplomacy of kings and intrigues, and was concerned primarily with trade. Such a liberal understanding has remained predominant – new diplomacy has typically been associated with democratic control over diplomacy, international organization, and free trade, and with openness and honesty in diplomatic practice. An alternative radical interpretation, where new diplomacy implied the complete overthrow of the old, can trace its roots to the French Revolution, and was expressed fully during the Russian Revolution. Although new diplomacy has also been used as a term of abuse by those who prefer traditional forms of diplomacy, the term has primarily signified an ongoing or desired change in a positive direction. Currently, it is being used as a label for most of the non‐state‐centric diplomacy.

The future is just another past

“…Over the ensuing century, 'diplomacy' has been gradually reconceptualised as the antithesis of war, no longer solely the domain of states, and increasingly appropriated for positive purposes. 83,84 Based on 230 years of conceptual history, one would thus probably be safe in prognosticating that scholars will be discussing 'diplomacy' 50 years into the future. However, the same conceptual history would also suggest that one should not expect the conceptual content of 'diplomacy' to be the same as it is today.…”