Understanding the Distinguishing Features of Post-Westphalian Diplomacy

Diplomacy is traditionally an instrument used by states to develop and sustain peaceful and predictable relations among themselves. This paper discusses the transformation of traditional diplomacy into global diplomacy by referring to modifications in four components of diplomacy: context, rules and norms, channels of communication, and actors and roles. After discussing the historical evolution of diplomacy, this paper argues that diplomacy has transformed in order to adapt itself to the newly emerging conditions of the 21st century. It has become a multi-actor and multi-level network phenomenon. However, this diplomatic transformation has not diluted the traditional sovereignty-based diplomacy. As states maintain their ultimate power and authority in the globalized system, so does state diplomacy.