Type a new keyword(s) and press Enter to search

Embassy functions

 

            "In the context of diplomacy today, the embassy is an expensive and unnecessary luxury." In the light of the above comment, critically analyse the principle functions and role of the embassy and assess its effectiveness as an instrument of modern diplomacy.
             There are mixed perceptions and opinions of the role and functions of the diplomat in the world today. Some would side with Sir Henry Wotton's (1568 - 1639) much quoted definition that he is: " an honest man sent abroad to lie for the good of country." Others would be less cynical and view diplomacy simply as " the conduct of official business by trained personnel representing governments to reach agreement within a framework of policy." With countless embassies stationed right across the globe and continued conflicts taking place, many doubt that they have served their objective: peace and cooperation. Moreover, with international organisations, such as the United Nations, in place and with the current advanced communication levels, it is no surprise that in such a high-tech global village we live in, the diplomat and the resident embassy seems obsolete, expensive, unnecessary and ineffective. What do they do that politicians, journalists and NGO's do not already do? To best understand their necessity we shall analyse the principle functions of an embassy, the conditions challenging them and the specific role of the ambassador himself as well as his staff. We shall continuously assess their general effectiveness as instruments for inter-state relations.
             In short, the 5 main functions of a diplomatic mission are as follows: Representation; Protection of interests; Negotiation; Information gathering and reporting; Promotion of friendly relations (development of economic, cultural and scientific relations.) .
            


Essays Related to Embassy functions