Quiet diplomacy

Quiet diplomacy, sometimes referred to as ‘silent diplomacy’ or ‘behind-the-scenes diplomacy,’ is a diplomatic approach that involves discreet, low-profile communication and negotiation between parties, typically governments or international organisations. The objective of quiet diplomacy is to resolve disputes, address sensitive issues, or promote cooperation without drawing public attention or causing embarrassment to the parties involved.

This form of diplomacy is often preferred in situations where publicising negotiations might jeopardise the process or lead to unwanted consequences. By maintaining a lower profile, quiet diplomacy allows for more flexibility, as negotiators can explore various options and make concessions without the pressure of public scrutiny. It can also help build trust between parties and facilitate the resolution of conflicts in a more amicable manner. However, quiet diplomacy has its limitations, as the lack of transparency can lead to mistrust or suspicion among the public or other stakeholders. Additionally, it might not be as effective in cases where public pressure is necessary to push the parties towards a resolution.