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Diplomacy

The reality of international diplomacy.

In the 1990s, an advert for a brand of chocolate depicted a sophisticated gathering hosted by the foreign ambassador of an unspecified country. It hinted at a gilded existence of cocktail parties and small talk among influential, wealthy guests. Iszi Lawrence finds out how the stereotype of the diplomatic world compares with the reality of international relations. Who does the real work behind the scenes and who has the power? When we see powerful leaders on the world stage shaking hands and signing treaties, what has led up to that moment?

Iszi discusses first hand experiences of the diplomatic world with the American diplomat Maryum Saifee and the former High Commissioner of Maldives to the UK, Farah Faizal. They are joined by Dr. Lorena de Vita, a historian of diplomatic relations to explain how their work impacts all of us. Plus World Service listeners from across the globe share their thoughts on what diplomats actually do.

Produced by Fiona Clampin for the 成人快手 World Service.

Available now

49 minutes

Last on

Thu 1 Feb 2024 00:06GMT

Broadcasts

  • Sat 27 Jan 2024 12:06GMT
  • Sun 28 Jan 2024 03:06GMT
  • Sun 28 Jan 2024 14:06GMT
  • Sun 28 Jan 2024 17:06GMT
  • Wed 31 Jan 2024 10:06GMT
  • Thu 1 Feb 2024 00:06GMT

Do you think political or business leaders need to be charismatic? Or do you prefer highly competent but somewhat stern people?

Do you think political or business leaders need to be charismatic? Or do you prefer highly competent but somewhat stern people?

We鈥檇 love to hear your views on charm and charisma for a future Forum.

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