Overview

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The Diplomatic Practice course provides a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape of international relations. You'll explore negotiation techniques, the role of embassies and diplomats in safeguarding national interests, and the impact of globalization and technology on modern diplomacy. Discover the nuances of political, economic, and cultural diplomacy, along with emerging trends like diaspora and para diplomacy. Analyze the rise of hybrid diplomacy in a post-pandemic world. Upon successful completion of this MOOC course, students who enrol in the MA-IRSS Programme will only be required to complete the Staff Graded Assignment to receive full credit for the course. This streamlined process acknowledges the foundational knowledge acquired through the MOOC and facilitates a seamless transition into the MA-IRSS curriculum.

Syllabus

The Ecosystem of Diplomatic Practice

This module introduces the realm of Diplomatic Practice, exploring how states interact on the world stage. You'll delve into the concept of international relations, the legal definition of a state, and the significance of national interest in shaping foreign policy. Using the United States and India as examples, you'll examine how nations utilize negotiations to achieve their objectives. Finally, the module analyzes the challenges of modern diplomacy in a shifting global landscape.

Diplomatic Missions and Posts

This module explains how embassies (or high commissions) work as the primary hubs of diplomacy. You'll learn about their structure and operations, as well as the role of consulates in serving citizens abroad and increasingly in economic and cultural diplomacy. The module also covers Cultural and Trade Centers' contributions to diplomacy. Finally, you'll learn about alternative representation when two countries lack formal diplomatic relations, such as interest sections within a third country's embassy or the appointment of Honorary Consuls.

Diplomatic Service, Immunities, and Privileges

This module provides an overview of professional diplomatic services, focusing on the role of ambassadors and the process of becoming a diplomat, including recruitment, training, and diplomatic privileges outlined in the Vienna Conventions. It also examines the privileges of consulates and future trends in diplomacy.

Levels of Diplomacy

This module explores different levels of diplomacy: bilateral, plurilateral, and multilateral. It explains Track 1 (government-to-government), Track 2 (think tanks and institutions influencing governments), and Track 1.5 (a mix of both). You'll learn how non-governmental actors like think tanks, universities, and NGOs are playing a growing role in diplomacy. Finally, the module examines the role of Chambers of Commerce in economic diplomacy and the influence of multinational corporations and lobbies on state diplomacy.

Main Types of Diplomacy

This module explores the interplay between political and economic diplomacy. You'll examine traditional political diplomacy tools like dialogue mechanisms, the role of foreign ministries and embassies, and the significance of summit diplomacy and state visits. The module also delves into economic diplomacy, covering free trade agreements, the World Trade Organization, and the geopolitical implications of initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and 5G technology.

Importance of Culture, Diaspora, and Subnational Actors in Diplomacy

This module explores the significance of a state's culture in international relations, highlighting cultural diplomacy and the role of institutions like India's ICCR. It delves into Joseph Nye's concept of "Soft Power" and its impact on public diplomacy, while acknowledging the challenges in measuring this power across diverse nations. The module also examines the growing influence of diasporas and their impact on state interests. Finally, it discusses the increasing role of subnational actors, such as provinces or states, in shaping diplomatic relations within federal systems.

Future of Diplomatic Practice

This module explores the evolution of diplomacy, from traditional practices to the challenges of modern digital diplomacy in the age of instant communication and social media. It examines issues of sovereignty, secrecy, and trust raised by digital diplomacy, and the impact of COVID-19, highlighting both the limitations and necessities of virtual diplomacy. Finally, it emphasizes the need for today's diplomats to possess both expertise and adaptability, combining speed and substance in communication, while maintaining credibility in the media landscape.