The most important aspect of the New Diplomacy

It is rather difficult to choose the most important aspects of the new diplomacy as we all know that there are quite a few significant features which distinguish new diplomacy from the traditional one. These very aspects are equally important as all have a great impact on the environment in which diplomacy is operating. Here, for instance, we can mention the emergence of public diplomacy or multilateral meetings and NGOs. Nevertheless, the participation of NGOs in diplomatic negotiations deserves special attention and, in my opinion, it is also the most important aspect on the New Diplomacy. Namely, NGOs play an important role in mediation and preventing conflicts before they become a real issue. Unlike governments, NGOs have an ability to detect conflict endangered situations because they work closely with grassroots in conflicting societies. They are also in a position where they can press governments to respond to the issues without complicating the international situation. Consequently, the effectiveness of their diplomatic initiatives has given them ‘prominence as international actors’ (Feilleux, 2009:103). Moreover, the fact that NGOs work closely with government representatives on international level is of great significance. They became valuable advisers to UN and other institutions as they posses advanced research skills and specialised researchers on issues which governments, for instance, lack in capabilities. In addition, NGOs represent the civil society which actively participates in international affairs and influences policy-making processes what was not possible any time earlier. I believe that for this reason NGOs role as a partner in diplomatic activities deserves special attention and acknowledgment.

Sources:
Jean-Robert Leguey-Feilleux, The Dynamics of Diplomacy, 2009