Foreign Ministries: Managing Diplomatic Networks and Optimizing Value
This is a collection of papers presented at the 2006 Conference on Foreign Ministries hosted by DiploFoundation in May 2006, in Geneva. The overarching theme is the adaptation and reform that these ministries have undertaken, in the shape of country experiences and the transformation implemented in specific areas such as the application of information technology for outreach to domestic publics, adaptation in consular services and outsourcing options. Some of the challenging issues addressed cover relations between civil servants and politicians, the role of sub-state entities in diplomacy, and how to survive budget cuts. The depth and diversity of the essays is a distinguishing feature of this collection.
Innovations in Diplomatic Training
Foreign ministries must constantly adapt to the evolving global landscape, where economic shifts, non-state actors, and transnational issues reshape diplomacy. The rise of the Internet and advanced communication technologies has transformed information access and policymaking. Governments face the challenge of managing increasing workloads with limited resources, requiring strategic adjustments to remain effective.
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.
Diplomacy of small states | Online course
Courses, TimelineDiplo launched an online course in 2007 on Diplomacy of Small States, taught by Malta’s Ambassador Victor Camilleri. The course focused on how small states engage in diplomacy to achieve foreign policy goals and navigate the global community. It highlighted that diplomacy by small states is integral to global diplomacy, emphasizing their significance and role in international relations.
Book on Asian Diplomacy
Publications, TimelineA book on Asian Diplomacy by Amb. Kishan S Rana, based on extensive research, provides in-depth analysis of the foreign ministries of China, India, Japan, Singapore, and Thailand. It offers unique perspectives and explores the cultural aspects of the diplomatic process.
Book on Roma Diplomacy published
Publications, TimelineThe book "Roma Diplomacy" was published by Diplo in June 2007 and is a compilation of papers from the 2005-2006 Roma Diplomacy project. It includes contributions from European civil servants, academics, and Roma rights activists focusing on promoting awareness of Roma issues.
Managing diplomatic networks and optimising value
Courses, TimelineThe book released by Diplo in June 2007, titled "Foreign Ministries: Managing Diplomatic Networks and Optimizing Value," explores how ministries have adapted and reformed to incorporate information technology. Themes include using IT for outreach, consular services, and outsourcing. Topics addressed include civil servant-politician relations, sub-state entities in diplomacy, and strategies to manage budget cuts.
eLearning Africa
Conferences, TimelineIn May 2007, the eLearning Africa conference in Nairobi attracted over 1400 participants, including African education ministries. The event united academia, business, civil society, and governments to highlight impactful technology-driven educational projects, featuring a presentation by Diplo on successful online learning design by Dejan Dincic.
Adaptation to a changing world
TimelineDiplo and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand organized a conference in Bangkok in June 2007 on adapting to a changing world.
MFAs and the Rising Challenge of Consular Affairs: Cinderella in the Limelight
Once seen as a second-class task, consular affairs are increasingly recognized as a core responsibility of foreign ministries. Global travel, terrorism, and natural disasters have raised the stakes, pushing ministries to prioritize citizen services abroad. Despite this shift at the top, many diplomats still view consular work as separate from 'real' diplomacy.
