Diplomacy- A staple of life

Diplomacy is an integral part of life. Over the years diplomacy has had to evolve to suit the realities of the world within which it operates. Often times, diplomacy is still perceived as an instrument of the state vis a vis the military but diplomacy is needed in every aspect of society, from the household to the community to the wider society- including the political and legal systems inter alia, and then  to the global society. Individuals from different backgrounds, cultures and states often use diplomacy in their dealings. Local, regional and international businesses and certainly states at the international and regional level also depend on diplomacy.

Diplomacy need not be viewed as a loaded concept and a phenomenon which ought to be confined to a particular arena. In simple terms, diplomacy in the 21st Century is concerned with managing relations while problem solving. An important element of managing relations is dialogue. Only when individuals can come together and share their views and thought processes, only when all parties have been heard, or believe that they have been heard, can problems be solved. Many problems seem to manifest because there are groups, sects, countries, people, who all believe that their voices are being ignored and against such a background they may choose alternative means of voicing their concerns or disapproval over matters of  domestic and global concern.

Wherever there exists two or more people who are unable to see eye to eye on issues, diplomacy has a role. This may be at church, in  community groups, corporations, or government. In essence, diplomacy is needed in every sphere of life. HR departments therefore need to recognize the utility of having someone trained in diplomacy to serve in that capacity. PR departments too need to understand that at the very core of diplomacy is managing image, this is why dialogue is promoted, for there are certain civilizing virtues  which are embedded in diplomacy. Those trained in diplomacy specialize in communication. They know how to say what needs to be said without causing unnecessary offense. Diplomats and those with diplomatic training know how to use language to quell situations and how to foster dialogue so as to generate solutions. Such a skill is needed in a growing society where  times are difficult, problems are many and complex,  the economic situation is uncertain and many feel alienated by government, corporations, family, fellow citizens, among others. In times like these, society needs diplomacy  to manage relations, balance interests and ultimately find solutions in a world where everyone is aggrieved and seeks to have their voices heard.