THE TRANSFORMATION OF TRADITIONAL DIPLOMACY
THE TRANSFORMATION OF TRADITIONAL DIPLOMACY
Throughout human history, diplomacy, which has been the primary tool for interstate relations, has served not only as a mechanism for maintaining peace but also as an art of maximizing states’ interests with the least cost. Diplomatic arrangements following major wars have formed the foundations of the international system. Agreements such as the Treaty of Westphalia, the Congress of Vienna, and the United Nations have been the cornerstones of traditional diplomacy. However, as world dynamics have changed over time, diplomacy itself has undergone a transformation, with traditional methods giving way to more flexible, multi-actor processes.
Traditional diplomacy is a process carried out within the framework of specific protocols through the official representatives of states. Ambassadors, envoys, and foreign ministries are the essential elements of this process. In the 19th and 20th centuries, negotiations conducted behind closed doors by major powers shaped the world order. Diplomacy was often seen as a mechanism managed by a specific elite, far removed from the public. Although this method ensured stability in international relations, it was sometimes criticized for disregarding the will of the people.
However, in the 21st century, traditional diplomacy has struggled to keep pace with the demands of the modern world. With globalization, technological advances, and the influence of social media, diplomacy is no longer conducted solely between states but has evolved into a process involving various actors, such as individuals, civil society organizations, and global corporations. The closed-door negotiations of traditional diplomacy have started to give way to public diplomacy. Today, state leaders can directly address the public through social media, and embassies have transformed from institutions solely focused on political negotiations into hubs of cultural and economic cooperation.
This transformation does not mean the complete disappearance of traditional diplomacy. On the contrary, traditional diplomacy still plays a critical role in managing major crises, preventing wars, and establishing long-term strategic partnerships. However, it is clear that the old methods alone are insufficient and need to be supported by new diplomatic tools. Today, states interact with one another not only through ambassadors but also through public diplomacy, economic cooperation, and digital platforms.
Traditional diplomacy has deep roots and still holds an important place in international relations. However, in a changing world, diplomacy must also evolve. Instead of closed-door negotiations, a more transparent, multi-actor diplomacy, where the public has a voice, is emerging. Perhaps diplomacy is no longer just the domain of statesmen but is increasingly becoming a product of the collective intelligence of the global community.