This comprehensive volume examines developments in diplomatic technique and changes in the diplomatic and political structures which both 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 eleven main chapters, the book embraces new ideas and fresh perspectives exploring individual methods such as reorientation, replacement institutions to combat decline or ineffectiveness of exiting 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.

About the Author

R.P. Barston is an international relations and contemporary diplomacy specialist. He has previously taught at Lancaster University, London School of Economics and King's College, UK.

Reviews

"Professor Ron Barston's volume on the theory and practice of contemporary diplomacy can only enhance his considerable reputation in the study and practice of international relations. His sophisticated analysis is based on an impressive range of relevant sources and the argument will certainly appeal to students, practitioners and scholars with an abiding interest in the complexities of diplomatic negotiation. This exceptional work of scholarship will greatly assist their efforts."

Jack Spence OBE, King's College London, UK

"Ronald Barston's incisive analysis draws upon his own considerable experience in the world of international diplomacy. The book dissects and illuminates the multi-dimensional aspects of diplomatic methods with great perspicacity that will be of enormous interest to students of international affairs and, just as importantly, to diplomatic practitioners. It provides an invaluable guide about how to think and do diplomacy in the real world."

Michael Rainsborough, Australian War College, Canberra, Australia

Book Information
ISBN 9781032068190
Author R.P. Barston
Format Paperback
Page Count 242
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 453g