Post-Modern States and the Evolution of Diplomacy
Post-Modern States: Characteristics and Challenges
Characteristics of Post-Modern States
- Breakdown of distinction between domestic and foreign affairs
- Mutual interference and surveillance in domestic affairs
- Rejection of force for dispute resolution and codification of rules of behavior
- Growing irrelevance of borders due to technological advancements
- Security based on transparency, interdependence, and mutual vulnerability
Challenges for Post-Modern States
Despite these characteristics, post-modern states face challenges, including:
- Reconciling democracy and democratic institutions with the territorial state
- Maintaining national identity and democratic institutions while embedding economy, law-making, and defense in international frameworks
The European Union as a Post-Modern System
The European Union (EU) is the most developed example of a post-modern system, representing security through transparency and interdependence.
Post-Modern States Beyond Europe
Other potential post-modern states include:
- Canada
- United States (to a limited extent)
Advice for Post-Modern States
Post-modern states should:
- Recognize the existence of chaos in other parts of the world and adapt their strategies accordingly
- Exercise caution when intervening in zones of chaos
Towards a New Diplomacy
In the post-modern era, diplomacy is evolving to include new players and functions:
- Private sector taking on traditional embassy roles
- Governmental diplomacy remains essential for democratic accountability and legitimacy
- Mediation of disputes between NGOs and corporations
- Engagement with non-state actors
- Creation of a new form of global governance with constructive stakeholder contributions
Public Diplomacy and Post-Modern States
Public diplomacy is crucial for post-modern states to promote values and ideas.
Diplomacy vs. Foreign Policy
Diplomacy is an instrument of foreign policy, facilitating peaceful contacts between governments through intermediaries.
Main Functions of Diplomacy
- External representation of state
- Protection of nationals abroad
- Gathering of information
- Identification of state goals and policy implementation
- Management of relations between states
- Establishment and renewal of international system rules and procedures