A Clash of Professional Cultures: The David Kelly Affair
"The Hutton inquiry therefore provides a uniquely well-documented and contemporary case study of both conditions mentioned above. This paper focuses both on the language and on the transgressions associated with each of the three professional cultures under investigation."
What is the Foreign Ministry?
This book examines why the ministry of foreign affairs (MFA) merits focused attention compared to other ministries. Its unique role in global diplomacy and national security makes it central to understanding a nation’s international standing. The discussion highlights the MFA’s organizational character and culture as key to addressing 21st-century challenges, offering insights into its evolving role in a complex world.
Roma Rights Activists and the Political Establishment: Communication Problems and Barriers
"Open communication and interaction between political elites and civic society is considered one of the fundamental conditions of a representative, working democracy. Several aspects of this process deserve a close look: ethnic cultural differences, professional cultural differences including educational and language barriers, the culture of racism, and finally, the lack of interaction and of a common ground all affect the process of communication."
Diplomatic Services and Emerging Multidisciplinary Issues, such as Internet Governance
"Secret negotiations do not fit anymore into a modern democracy where voters want to exercise ultimate control over those who negotiate treaties. The increased interaction between governments and voters has made secret diplomacy increasingly difficult."
Multilateralism: Fading or changing?
For years, politicians, analysts, and diplomats have been concerned that multilateralism is either in jeopardy or effectively dead. The evolving global challenges to security and peace have led many countries to favor bilateral or small-group approaches, questioning whether the post-WWII frameworks can still govern today’s rapidly changing world.
Switzerland’s Agreements with the European Union: How to Manage Complex International Negotiations
Switzerland's foreign policy has historically focused on two key concerns: maintaining its neutral status and securing access to trade as a landlocked country. In recent dealings with the European Union, these concerns have merged, as Switzerland navigates maintaining sovereignty while fostering strong economic ties without pursuing full membership.
The Modernization of the Lithuanian Consular Service in Response to Global Challenges
"Inadequate consular assistance taints the whole institution. The Ministry recognizes what great responsibility lies in the hands of the consular officers as it undertakes the modernization of the Lithuanian consular service."
MFA Reform: Global Trends
The transformation of diplomacy in the context of globalization is explored, focusing on how foreign ministries worldwide are adjusting their structures and methods to anticipate and respond to future global challenges. A significant aspect of this change is the emphasis on foresight, with strategic documents such as 'Foresight 2010' and 'Vision 2015' providing a roadmap for reshaping diplomatic practices. The exploration highlights how these forward-thinking initiatives are helping to adapt diplomatic systems to the rapidly changing global landscape.
Foreign ministries – The Case of Flanders (1993-2005): How Subnational Entities Develop their Own ‘Paradiplomacy’
The chapter discusses the evolving role of diplomacy, emphasizing that it is no longer the sole domain of nation-states. The concept of "paradiplomacy," refers to the foreign policies of non-central governments, highlighting the growing complexity and multi-layered nature of diplomacy in the modern world
Through the diplomatic looking glass
Publications, TimelineIn August 2007, Diplo collaborated with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to publish "Through the Diplomatic Looking Glass" by Stefano Baldi and Pasquale Baldocci. This study is part of Diplo's collection "Diplomats as writers," analyzing books by Italian diplomats. Over 750 titles are examined, showcasing diplomats' diverse interests and talents for depicting situations and characters.
