Diplomatic Methods

By: R.P. Barston

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Synopsis: This comprehensive volume examines developments in diplomatic technique and changes in the diplomatic and political structures which shape, and are shaped, by international relations and the international order.It provides a comprehensive foundation for understanding the theory, practice and utility of diplomacy showing how diplomatic techniques are used in different contexts and the various tools that are available to policy actors to provide a broad yet deep view of the subject area. Organised around a framework of 11 chapters, the book embraces new ideas and fresh perspectives exploring individual methods such as reorientation, replacement institutions to combat decline or ineffectiveness of existing arrangements, summit conferences, contrasting approaches to economic agreements, and use of secret diplomatic methods, among others. Furthermore, it develops new concepts such as logistics diplomacy, counter diplomacy, parallel diplomacy and the “alternative architecture”, and is widely illustrated with detailed examples including the diplomacy of geopolitics, the conflict over rules for plastics, marine resource disputes, dark trade and sanctions, and influence and strategic surprise.This textbook will be essential reading for all those interested in or studying in the fields of diplomacy, comparative foreign policy, foreign policy analysis, and more broadly, to international relations.