The practice of representing a nation’s interests in the world, through peaceful negotiation and dialogue. Diplomacy aims to shape foreign policy and promote international cooperation in trade, culture, science, and security. It is the primary—but far from the only—instrument of statecraft. Diplomats are the principal–but not only–practitioners of this craft, specialists in carrying messages and negotiating adjustments in relations, as well as the resolution of quarrels among states, their peoples, and other entities.
Diplomacy grew in importance over the centuries as nations expanded and consolidated their power through military expansion, colonization, and commerce. The development of religions, ideologies, and cultures further shaped the international system and its actors. Diplomacy evolved to reflect and support the broader goals of a country’s foreign policy by means of international treaties, agreements, and alliances.
The word “diplomacy” derives from the ancient Greek word diplo, meaning folded paper or a document conferring privileges—often a permit to travel—on the bearer. By the 18th century, it had come to refer to all solemn documents issued by chancelleries, and later came to include any formal negotiations between sovereigns. The direct link to papers lapsed when diplomacy became synonymous with international relations, though the concept still has some association with the practice of authenticating old official documents.
In the modern sense, diplomacy includes all of a country’s efforts to shape its image in the world. It includes the activities of diplomats (or ambassadors) and of other officials who carry out diplomatic missions. It also entails embassy staff, who often act as openly acknowledged spies for their home countries, and the various “supply centers”—cities or regions that can be claimed by diplomats to expand a country’s resources in trade and warfare.