GIFT GIVING AND DOING BUSINESS IN CHINA

DOING BUSINESS IN CHINA I

DOING BUSINESS IN CHINA II

GIFTS

Giving gifts is part of ancient Chinese culture; offering them is a sign of courtesy and good manners, although this custom was only in the private sphere. In the government sphere, gifts are illegal to avoid possible bribes, and there is some circumstantial flexibility in the business and political spheres.

Although this consideration of bribery is no longer widespread, it is possible for someone to refuse a gift (even out of habit, as will be explained later) or to be unwelcome. Some people or groups will not change or adapt to certain changes.

A banquet is the most acceptable if you want to make a gift. An excellent way to give away is an invitation to eat; Generally, this invitation is a form of welcoming. If we are invited to a meal, we must reciprocate our hosts by inviting them to a similar one. This way of reciprocating is a way of following Chinese protocol and being polite in responding to their attention.

Otherwise, we must bear in mind that Western-type gifts are highly appreciated, and more so those that have to do with some traditional or typical gift from the country of origin; that is to say, the best accepted to give to a company are the crafts of our country and the books that speak of the customs, history or geography of the same; (or the region or area from which we come). Additionally, it requires a clear message regarding the type and company we represent. Nothing to give doubts. If in addition to making the gift, we can explain its meaning, which is much better for them. In this way, they find a more excellent justification for it.

Among the most recommended gifts to make on our visit to China, we can indicate the following:

  • If you live in Europe, Cognac or French brandy, whiskey, or any liquor typical of the country;
  • Quality fountain pens or ballpoint pens;
  • Lighters and cigars;
  • Desk accessories, such as calculators or other small electronics for the office;
  • Books of History, Folklore, or Art (better if they refer to our country);
  • Small framed paintings and small sculptures;
  • On certain occasions, a seal could be part of the Chinese hobby;
  • The ginseng is a detail that they appreciate. Above all, if the country of cultivation is our country of origin.

Among the gifts that are not recommended, we can mention:

  • Nothing to do with coins or cash;
  • Cheese is not usually in their diet and, therefore, not a treat they appreciate. It is not a food that they like very much;
  • Wine is also not a very appropriate gift for reasons similar to the previous one;
  • Giving them a basket of fruit means poverty. Even if you have a good friendship, fruit is not a good gift;
  • Just as 4 is a number related to death, the number 40 should not be referred to, and therefore, nothing related to these numbers should be given away;
  • Do not give anything in green (a green shirt, a green hat, etc.). Any clothing that is green means to them that someone in the family has committed adultery;
  • It is discouraged to give watches if the recipient is older. It is a hint that he has little time left to live. The word “clock” implies death, burial, or funeral;
  • Other gifts associated with death or funeral themes are straw sandals and handkerchiefs;
  • Scissors, knives, paper knives, and any other cutting object could insinuate the cutting of relationships or friendships;

There are significant differences between negotiating with private companies or doing it with official organizations and entities. The first ones are much more receptive to changes and adapt better to novelty. In both cases, if we are going to give away, we must do it with enough discretion. The Chinese usually reject the gift at first and can reject it up to three times, but if you insist (because they do it out of courtesy, not to seem eager to receive something), they will end up accepting. Once they accept our gift, they will visibly show their gratitude. In return, it is easy for them to want to reciprocate with another gift. If they do, also out of courtesy, we will have to do a “ritual” similar to the one they do; reject it at first, and accept it after a second or third offer.

We also have to differentiate institutional gifts from individual gifts. Suppose the gift is institutional, from company to company. In that case, it is likely that, for the Chinese, there should be something for everyone, and gifts should not be given only to some of the components of the representation. When gifts are given to an entire group, a negotiation team, or a specific delegation, we will not distinguish between them. Everyone should receive the same type of gift.

If we wish to give a gift to a specific person, it should not involve a personal level, and we will do it in private with discretion, taking care not to inconvenience the rest of the staff. A single general gift for the entire representation must be given in the presence of all. The best thing would be to give it personally at the company’s facilities; the highest-ranking boss or executive; to the highest-level representative of the delegation or leader of the negotiating group with whom we have contact since they have a fairly rigid hierarchical scheme and it would be incorrect to give it to a person of lower status. It is shown to everyone, even if it is only given to the representative or spokesperson. On the other hand, it is better to ensure that we bring enough gifts to reciprocate surprise attention for our visit.

Likewise, if we need to improve the relationship with a delegation, it is allowed to give a small gift to each one, in the order in which they were presented to us. Remember that China’s precedence is very important and deserves much attention.

Gifts are given with both hands and received in the same way, as a ritual that represents an “offering.”

Although it is a custom in the West, photographs of the gifts should not be taken, not even as a souvenir. No photos are taken of the facilities (at least without asking permission). If a gift is given at a general level for the entire representation or company and you want to immortalize the moment, we can do it if the hosts grant permission.

Another recommendation, perhaps the most important, is never to give a gift of great value because it would embarrass the recipient. It always has to be of a moderate value. The reason? There is an order of reciprocity, implying that we force the other party to make the same monetary effort. Usually, an expensive gift will be considered offensive by our eastern counterparts.

Starting by giving away things of value is a significant misstep; Initially, small details are given away. When the negotiations have concluded and a good business relationship has been established, we can think about making some corporate gift of some value.

Another consideration: when going through customs, Chinese officials tend to carefully check all the packages that we try to introduce into the country, especially those that contain food, and they do so with considerable curiosity. If they ask: What is this? or how does this work? We must give as detailed an explanation as possible. They like these explanations.

Small objects almost never cause problems; however, objects of great value could be taken as contraband.

Likewise, wrapping the gift before arriving in China is not recommended, as we will surely have to open it at customs control. We will likely have to unwrap them to display their content. If you have to take the gifts packaged, make it an easy-to-open package. After passing the appropriate inspections, we will do the good packaging at the hotel.

And, in relation to the wrapping, it is as important as the gift. On the one hand, it shows the interest we have placed in it; on the other, the color can give the wrong message. You have to avoid black, white, or blue representing death.

The best color to wrap the gift will be red, which is the favorite and represents luck. Other colors safe from special connotations are pink and gold. If the wrapper is yellow with black letters, it also means something related to funerals and death. However, the colors may have a slightly different meaning depending on our location. With the rest of the colors, you have to be very careful because, in China, most colors have a special meaning.

One of the best options to avoid trouble is to have the gifts wrapped in a store or a hotel unit.

In addition, there are certain superstitions about numbers. A gift with the number eight (eight flowers, eight cups, eight saucers, etc.) symbolizes good luck. For them, the number 6 is the number of concords, which helps solve problems or setbacks and smooth out tense situations. In addition to 4, other prohibited numbers are 73, which means funeral, and 84, which means misfortune, prone to accidents. If you have any doubts about a number, it would be wise to ask to avoid any compromising situation.

As the Japanese (by the way, better not to talk about them, it is not uncommon for them to have a special dislike for them), the Chinese do not open gifts when they are received. Most gifts are not opened in the presence of the giver. They have a habit of opening them in private. However, many business people and executives who know Western customs could open them in our presence as a courtesy.

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Writer by Claudia STOHMANN R. de A. Communicator, speaker, writer, etiquette, and protocol expert. 

16 June 2022, Bolivia 

Category: Business Etiquette 

Reference: CS16062022BE    

“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”

INTOLERANCE: A WAY OF LIFE?

Intolerance is a synonym for sectarianism, obstinacy, and stubbornness. Because it reveals severe emotional deficiencies, we adapt to living with that wrong way of proceeding. This is, without a doubt, another example of the apathy that characterizes us so much.

We live in a social context that promotes poor development and poor performance. Worse, we accept the intense atmosphere of intolerance that affects human relationships with resignation and bemusement. I am concerned about how quickly it spreads and disrupts our quality of life in the most diverse scenarios. It’s in our blood.

I could go on and on about the numerous everyday situations that indicate growing intolerance. Our ability to understand and accept others is deteriorating. We are in a process that is threatening our survival. However, we are doing little or nothing to change this abrasive environment. We are all part of a vicious circle that no longer deserves to be broken.

We see it in heated arguments between couples or between parents and children, where the arrogance of the highest authority imposes its determination; in companies where the boss considers himself the absolute owner of the truth and refuses to admit discrepancies; in political events, where the inability to cohabit with the adversary is undeniable; and even in supermarket queues. The brand new “stress” that we all claim to be victims of is the ideal ruse to justify our lack of deference.

It is simple to understand the vicious cycle caused by intolerance. It is related to a lack of emotional intelligence, making it easier to understand others’ feelings, cope with work pressures and frustrations, and enhance our ability to work as a team and adopt an empathic attitude. This fusion of interpersonal and intrapersonal intelligence translates into a broad understanding of one’s emotions. It paves the way for stress management and problem-solving in this way.

It is also associated with a lack of openness. The eagerness to consider ourselves “owners of the truth,” regardless of gender, age, or social status, indicates a high level of intolerance. The lack of a democratic vocation influences this nefarious act to accept the thoughts and options of others as valid. It is inextricably linked to empathy deprivation, the extraordinary ability to put ourselves in our interlocutor’s “shoes” to understand him despite our differences. Knowledge and the internalization of social skills are promoted in this manner, making it an important tool in combating intolerance.

It is inconvenient for some people to develop this faculty because it would force them to assume a comprehensive response in situations where it is easier to respond with aggression, alteration, and obfuscation. At the same time, angry behavior instills fear in others. Some people, orphans of self-control, seek this as a defensive mechanism to avoid being subjected to the critical scrutiny of their surroundings. It is common among parents, officials, teachers, and others. An honest examination of human behavior demonstrates this.

In this regard, I would like to reiterate what I said in my article “Tolerance in Etiquette”: “… though it is difficult for us to admit it, we should recognize that we are part of a community where understanding and benevolence are not incorporated into our daily conduct.” We can confirm this by attending a social gathering and observing the behavior of ladies and gentlemen during conversations about emotional or contentious issues such as politics, sports, etc. We see it in the press media, which ostensibly has transparency, objectivity, and serenity to guide citizen opinion.

Intolerance harms our rational condition, impedes social coexistence, sharpens existing conflicts, and exposes our primitive performance. From my perspective, it’s like the tip of an “iceberg,” revealing the extent of our internal narrowness. It is unfortunate to confirm humanity’s inability to consider others and incorporate understanding, consent, good manners, urbanity, courtesy, and plurality as elements to make life viable and peaceful.

Finally, I recommend it with a reflective spirit and the hope of committing ourselves to the well-versed words of Mahatma Gandhi, the lucid pacifist, thinker, and leader of India’s independence: “I dislike the word tolerance, but I cannot think of a better alternative. Love compels us to have the same regard for the faith of others that we have for our own “.

http://wperezruiz.blogspot.com/

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Writer by Wilfredo Peréz Ruiz, an expert in Etiquette and Protocol

15 June 2022, Peru

Category: Business Éthics

Reference: WP15062022BE

Photography: Antonio Janeski 

Review by Eric Muhia, co-editor of the English language 

THE ART OF COMMUNICATION IN BUSINESS

With the high usage of our mobile devices and other forms of media communication, people are shredding their common everyday skills of face-to-face interactions. Some people have difficulties when faced with the task of mingling in a crowd of unfamiliar and sometimes familiar acquaintances. We’d rather send a text message to someone in the same room than hold a personal conversation or avoid communication altogether. 

Good communication skills are still a vital part of our everyday interactions. A good Conversationalist can talk to anyone about anything in a laid-back, casual manner that sets people at ease. They can make a stranger feel like they have known them for years. Some people have a natural “sliver-tongue.” Being prepared with good communication skills will boost your chat in ways that make you a valued party guest or set you apart at a networking event, company functions, or a simple social gathering. For starters, listen more than you talk.

Ironically enough, the key to being a great conversationalist is not in the talking but in the listening. If you are conversing with someone and doing all the talking, you are probably the only one interested in what you say. Listen to what others have to say and listen well. This will also lead to questions you can ask to progress the conversations further. When asking questions, ask open-ended questions. Open-ended questions encourage the respondent to elaborate or provide details in their response. Closed-ended questions with a simple yes or no reply will ultimately send the entire conversation on a downward spiraling dead-end. 

Avoid political and religious topics unless you are attending your political party’s convention or a familiar religious function. Both of these areas deal with personal matters for many people and are not good for light conversations in mixed gatherings. They can sour a mood quickly. Also, keep in mind not to ask questions that are too personal or insulting. You want to make friends, not enemies. 

Take your turn. Whether the conversation is with one person or several, join in. A conversation is a group project with each person playing a part. Don’t just stand around like an eavesdropper. 

Contribute to the conversation. This is prime time to ask open-ended questions if you have nothing to add. On the other hand, don’t overshare or monopolize. It’s not a monologue. 

Everyone should contribute. When you add to the conversation, avoid talking or directing your conversation to only one person. Make eye contact with others in the group. Be careful not to interrupt others. 

Don’t be a Debbie or Donnie Downer. No one wants to engage in a conversation with someone who has nothing but negative comments about everything. People will exit your presence fast! It’s the quickest way to find yourself alone without anyone to engage with. Try to find the positive in the conversation and respond to that. 

Don’t engage in “one-upping.” So, what is one-upping? That is when you try to top someone else’s story. If you have a good story to share, find a way without making the other person feel their story was of no value. Not only is one-upping petty, but it’s also very rude. You may have a terrific story to tell but reconsider at the risk of deflating someone else’s balloon.

Think before you speak. Most foot-in-mount moments occur because of a failure to think before speaking. You never want to be offensive, and you don’t want to embarrass yourself or others. Be careful what you say. You never know who’s listening, nor do you know who others know. 

Be prepared with what to say and not say. Before you attend your event, think of some general topics and questions that will be of interest to anyone. “One of the easiest ways to start a conversation or stay in touch always offers value.” (Kesha Kent, Networking Is Your Superpower). Most of all, be friendly and confident. This will help you to be a savvy conversationalist. 

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Writer by Renita Jackson, Etiquette Specialist

14  June 2022, USA 

Category: Business Etiquette 

Reference: RJ14062022BE    

“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”

THE OVERVIEW OF PROTOCOL AS WE LIVE GLOBALLY

This article is written on the first anniversary of the ProtocolToday Magazine Global Mindset. Its corporate purpose is to share, promote, discuss and publish the principle of protocol worldwide in different sectors and to deliberate on the global mentality.

This is defined as a system of rules that allows individuals, corporations, and systems to act and behave correctly in a formal situation. For example, the protocol has been seen in different cases, such as sports, cultural, social, commercial, diplomatic, and other activities.

S the world became more globally connected and faster, it also became imperative to apply protocol procedures. Otherwise, we will continue to face, shortly, more pessimistic scenarios such as wars in the world. From the diplomatic perspective, mainly those situations are caused by successive disagreements and breaches of protocol. Therefore, the rules are essential to continue driving safely globally, as it is now known as the global village.

Covid-19 was a clear manifestation of the protocol in the proper sense during the pandemic. All nations have adopted the Covid Protocol and have acted together for a common goal. However, the global mentality has played an essential role in putting them all in the same place in the “basket.” So I would emphasize that it is imperative to continue discussing such an important issue directly connected to today’s global mindset.

As a ProtocolToday Academy student, I would like to highlight the importance of protocol, referring to the significant contribution in the field of Diplomacy of the honorable ambassador of Portugal, José Calvet de Magalhães; in his book “The pure concept of Diplomacy.”

The importance of the protocol in the diplomatic field appears as a solid element and a foundation of the concept of Diplomatic Protocol. His book is based on international treaties and protocol documents that govern international relations and organizations, based on the Vienna International Convention on diplomatic and consular relations.

In addition, Ambassador José Calvet de Magalhães was referred to by the letter addressed to British Ambassador George Kennan, in which he stated: “It is particularly important that a book like yours came out precisely at this time; by recent events, especially with the acceleration of electronic communications and the personal travel habits of the ministries, and the head of state, has to raise doubts in certain cases to the public about the traditional institutional values ​​of Diplomacy.” Magalhães, J. (1995): The pure concept of diplomacy: Bertrand Editora.

So, in the above passage, the author mentioned and emphasized the lack of protocols and ethics in some situations, so we can conclude that the protocol is necessary and essential for the stability of the government and to solidify the relationship of trust. Between rulers and ruled.

The protocol is extensive and difficult to summarize in this text. Therefore, this article shows its general and positive impact in a way that helps regulate procedures, conduct, and coordinate business, negotiations, actions, and behaviors that can be observed and implemented in different sectors such as cultural protocol, social protocol, and communication protocol, business, and diplomatic protocol.

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Writer by Luciano Caianda, Student of ProtocolToday Academy

 13 June 2022, Canada

Category: Business Protocol

Reference: LC13062022BP    

“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”

THE HISTORY AND THE ART OF GIVING IN DIPLOMACY

Since late antiquity, diplomacy has been subject to various protocols governing ambassadors’ treatment and behavior. With the gradual spread of new ways of doing diplomacy and the increasing correlation of diplomacy with sovereignty during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, questions of diplomatic ceremony in Europe became paramount. Diplomatic ceremonial accordingly developed both as a mechanism for regulating diplomatic interactions and the focal point for intense inter-sovereign competition. It was not until the nineteenth century that diplomatic ceremony began to decline as a point of intense international controversy, though it remains an element of practice in contemporary diplomacy.

History

The exchange of gifts during state and diplomatic visits demonstrates the good diplomatic relations between the states. This also presents a sign of the generosity that is required as a strategy of political representation. Gifts distributed to heads of states and heads of monarchies would be expressed as traditional depending on the recipient’s rank. With gifts distributed to the Kings, they were associated with the ritual act of knighting, or they were given as grateful recognition of rendered services. “On July 23, 1574, the Collegio (the Venetian council of ministers) resolved to commission the ambassadors extraordinary to purchase a magnificently equipped carriage as a gift for the king. As it was to serve his onward journey, the horses were accustomed to carriage harnesses and handsome. To complete the order in a short time, the ambassadors were permitted to appropriate such horses regardless of the owner or social status. Subsequently, the owners were to be paid.”

American Diplomatic Gifting

American diplomatic etiquette during the early national period largely conformed to the dictates of republican simplicity, giving it a certain uniqueness that set it apart from the court etiquette of the Old World. One of the most evident manifestations of the attempt to divorce American diplomatic etiquette and protocol from the traditional and time-honored practices associated with European Court usage involved the giving and receiving of diplomatic gifts and emoluments. In places such as the United States, where diplomacy aims to promote “security, prosperity, democracy, and economic development,” gift exchanges may seem an unusual tactic. Yet, the tradition maintains a place in international relations today.

However, there existed many occasions upon which the governments of Europe gave presents to foreign ministers stationed at their respective courts; the two most common instances were upon the conclusion of treaties and international agreements, and the completion of the foreign ministers varied widely from court to court and from diplomat to diplomat. John Quincy Adams was an expert on such matters, explained that the usual present received by diplomats at the Court of St. James was “ a sum of money, graduated according to his rank, or a gold box, or another trinket of equal value” while at St. Petersburg “this present usually consists of gold snuffbox with the portrait of the Emperor enchased in diamonds, the value of which is proportionate to the rank of the minister and to the degree of satisfaction which the Emperor thinks proper to manifest with his conduct during the mission.”

Most diplomats and heads of the state rely on a specific department to help them choose their presents. In the US, the Office of Protocol’s Gift Unit selects presents with varying degrees of success. In 2014, for example, secretary of state John Kerry gave Russian foreign minister Sergej Lavrov two large potatoes from Idaho. It seemed an unnecessary humiliation for Lavrov, who had already received a questionable gift from Kerry’s predecessor. In 2009, Hillary Clinton, then secretary of state, handed him a replica of a red button supposed to symbolize an easing of tension between the two countries. Yet the word peregruzka that appeared under the button meant “overcharged” and not “reset,” as the Office of Protocol had intended.

European Diplomatic Gifting

European and Mughal rulers and their envoys shared a common ground of diplomatic gift-giving practices shaped by an understanding of what was worthy of giving and of the symbolic power of the given objects. Gift-giving between European monarchies was also unique as it was realpolitik: receiving objects became a manner of securing, or maintaining, a favorable position with a diplomatic counterpart or adversary based on the value of the gift. Gift exchange between monarchs and states of equal standing has a long European history. Gifts would be offered directly at monarchical encounters: more often, they were given as proxy for heads of State. Sixteenth-century diplomacy used all gifts—animals, plates, jewels—along with the new gift of portraits, which were a particularly intimate form of present, affirming identity. Ambassadors, who were now increasingly often residents in London, brought gifts and were rewarded by the Crown. Elizabeth, James, and Charles had to develop tariffs of reward, reflecting the status of an embassy and the honor due to the servants of a foreign prince. Such rewards were matters of political importance, closely scrutinized by domestic and foreign observers.

Why do Diplomats Give Gifts?

A state gift often captures a nation’s essence, chosen for its ability to exhibit pride in a unique culture and people. Gifts of state may showcase fine or folk arts, crafts, or craftsmanship traditions. They may display wealth in precious stones or metals, fine textiles, and apparel. Gifts may draw from a rich heritage of antiques and antiquities or an expressive storehouse of cultural icons. This way, the gift becomes more than a mere formality but a reminder of the special alliance between the gift giver and receiver. Diplomacy comes in many different forms, but one is often forgotten: the long-standing tradition of state officials exchanging gifts. These gifts, meant to “welcome, honor and cultivate beneficial diplomatic relationships,” come in many shapes and sizes but often emphasize the workmanship of local businesses, historical craftsmanship, or local luxuries and materials. Sometimes surpassing the ordinary and requiring stringent accountability, they make us question the role of diplomatic performance, the effectiveness of government oversight, and the impact of symbolism.

Diplomatic gifts can indeed offer a lasting, positive image of allyship. The practice of diplomatic gift-giving overall requires striking a balance; this tradition holds potential for showing off a country’s cultural and material richness and for being a performative, diplomatically sensitive action. Perhaps our affinity for gifts and gifting to others is at the root of this norm. Diplomatic gifts may not be, after all, much different in intent or expectation than birthday gift-giving or any other holiday present. However, given the complicated processes and interactions that they require and the wealth they represent, it may be worth exploring their place among countries attempting to promote democratic and meritocratic values, as well as re-evaluating best practices.

The giver is ultimately the person who will benefit most in the exchange if the present creates an expectation for a gift in return.

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Writer by Eric Muhia, International Studies and Diplomacy Graduate Student and Young Diplomat.

10 June 2021, Kenya

Category: Diplomacy 

Reference: EM10062022D    

“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”

PROTOCOL: STATE VISIT IN PERU

En estos tiempos, no saber de principios de NETiqueta, es prácticamente equivalente a no saber leer o escribir, dado que es la forma en la que nos comunicamos en los últimos años y hacerlo de manera incorrecta, nos puede ocasionar muchos problemas.

Aunque parezca increíble y a pesar de que este término fue tomando forma hace casi 30 años, mucha gente aún no lo conoce y si han oído hablar de él, no le han prestado en muchos casos, la atención necesaria.

Gracias a la evolución de las redes, la difusión de las muchas normas de esta área de conocimiento no se hace tan complicada como hubiera sido un proceso de alfabetización en siglos pasados; sin embargo, es difícil encontrar a gente capaz de reconocer que tiene mucho que aprender en relación a esta rama, ya sea por falta de humildad o porque cuesta creer que es necesario manejar principios de comportamiento para algo tan sencillo como escribir y hacer uso de los variados recursos que la tecnología facilita hoy en los dispositivos electrónicos que tenemos a nuestro alcance.

Es imperioso que se convierta en una materia académica, pero hasta que eso ocurra en el mundo entero, vamos paso a paso buscando profundizar en cada uno de los aspectos que involucran el amplio conocimiento de la NETiqueta bajo un enfoque global empresarial. Para dar inicio a esta tarea, nos abocaremos a la publicación “Netiquette”, libro de Virginia Shea que muchos conocen, en el que se dio a conocer por primera vez “The 10 Core Rules of Netiquette” (Las 10 Reglas básicas de comportamiento en la Red) hace 27 años atrás, en 1994. ¡Empecemos!

Recuerde al humano.

En la comunicación en línea, es muy fácil olvidar que hay un ser humano que va a recibir nuestros mensajes o, alguien detrás de las palabras que leemos. Es sencillo responder a un comentario negativo porque se lee en una pantalla en lugar de mirar a los ojos de una persona. Existe una especie de “libertad” implícita y mal llevada, que muchas veces alienta a actuar o escribir, sin medir consecuencias de manera prudente.

Al no ser un medio presencial, no sabremos con certeza el tono, la emoción, la intención, la expresión del que transmite y recibe un texto o inclusive, la intensidad de un mensaje y esto, puede llevarnos a malas interpretaciones con consecuencias graves e irreversibles.  Una mala interpretación, crea una pésima imagen de alguien que ni siquiera se conoce – (En la red, “la primera impresión” tiene más fuerza que en el mundo presencial) – puesto que la manera de expresarse, la forma de respuesta, la atención prestada, la diligencia y otros aspectos de comportamiento, marcan pautas importantes en la percepción de quien nos lee, más aún en el mundo de los negocios. 

Tenemos que entender que una mala comunicación en línea, además de mostrar una imagen negativa o equivocada, podría romper con relaciones, destrozar una reputación o crear conflictos grupales importantes.

No es extraño que, en el mundo empresarial de hoy, las juntas se hayan convertido en informes por correo electrónico, videollamadas o videoconferencias y que los instructivos y llamadas de atención que se debían dar de forma personal, ahora se den mediante un mensaje de chat o una comunicación en línea. De la misma manera, los grupos de chat corporativos, son algo tan cotidiano, como la necesidad de un registro de Recursos Humanos y aquí, debemos preguntarnos si el o los administradores de dichos grupos, tienen la capacidad para consolidar a ese grupo de gente, con las características y habilidades de un Relacionista Público; comprendiendo que está en ese puesto, no sólo para agregar o eliminar participantes y tal vez bloquear o censurar ciertas publicaciones.  Su función requiere de mayor responsabilidad, dado que está a cargo de varias personas que no pueden verse entre sí y que, por una inclinación cerebral negativa ante un sistema de comunicación que no brinda la claridad de lo que se dice y se quiere decir, van a tender a mal interpretar o mal reaccionar ante una infinidad de mensajes o instrucciones ambiguas que llevan a una serie de disgustos y dificultades que no siempre son fáciles de subsanar.

Por otro lado, no nos olvidemos que toda persona tiene derecho a privacidad y tiempo libre, por lo que, considerar que el chat de la empresa es una extensión de la oficina, es un grave error.  Se deben respetar los horarios y días libres, fuera de horario laboral y los administradores de grupos empresariales o los jefes, deben conducirse bajo normas de respeto y del emblema de dar a los demás, la misma consideración que esperamos para nosotros.

Es necesario recalcar, que el contacto en línea, no permite una comunicación implícita, por lo tanto, se torna ambigua y es fácil ofender u ofenderse. Existe un gran riesgo por el sesgo de negatividad que nuestra mente programa para interpretar la ambigüedad como negativa. Nuestros mensajes deben ser pensados con cuidado para ser enviados y se requiere de una mente abierta para leer los recibidos. ¿A quién no le ha pasado vivir el miedo del fantasma del mensaje que no llega con la idea de que es un mensaje desagradable? Y cuando llega, si el mensaje es ambiguo, nuestro cerebro va a divagar hacia la peor interpretación posible.  Por esto, es importante trabajar para asumir una intención positiva de parte de nuestro emisor y dar una interpretación positiva al leer. Si tenemos la convicción de que tiene un trasfondo negativo, hagamos una pregunta explícita en la forma más respetuosa posible, para salir de dudas.  Bajo todas estas consideraciones, tenemos la obligación de apuntar a una ambigüedad mínima o nula en nuestros mensajes con una actitud transparente y confiable.  El sarcasmo, puede ser genial para muchos y en muchas ocasiones, pero el chat no es el canal adecuado.

Una pared de contención, es pensar si nuestras palabras escritas, podrían ser manifestadas de frente. Es muy fácil escribir palabras o comentarios negativos porque no vamos a ver la expresión de desagrado, ira, frustración o inclusive dolor, de quien los recibe. Si la respuesta es no, revisemos y re escribamos hasta que tengamos la certeza de que no estamos enviando algo que realmente no deseamos enviar. Cuando los mensajes involucran emociones, será mejor esperar que pase el tiempo y si es indefectible, optar por el mensaje cara a cara o el teléfono. Si existe una circunstancia extrema en que debamos manifestar algo que sabemos, no hará feliz al receptor, tratemos de que nuestro mensaje transmita a cabalidad lo que se requiere expresar y así, evitar mal interpretaciones, como es el caso de una llamada de atención o un despido que no se puede dar de forma directa, por problemas de distancia o conexión.

Tomando en cuenta la condición humana de nuestros receptores, no enviemos mensajes ofensivos o fuera de lugar, que pueden ser guardados y divulgados.  Recordemos que una vez que enviamos, perdemos el control de a dónde pueda llegar.  Seguramente la persona agraviada, se sentirá en el derecho de dar a conocer la ofensa si las circunstancias lo requieren, llegando inclusive a estratos legales como pruebas difamatorias u otra tipificación mayor. Está el caso de Oliver North, usuario del sistema de correo electrónico de la Casa Blanca, PROFS, que de forma ingenua y diligente eliminaba notas incriminatorias que mandaba o recibía, pero ignoraba que, en otro lugar de la Casa Blanca, los encargados de sistemas, almacenaban dichas notas que fueron luego usadas como evidencias en su contra en el juicio en el que fue condenado.

Para cerrar, está la referencia del mundo comercial, en que el chat se ha convertido en el canal favorito de los clientes, por que facilita respuestas instantáneas y, cuando es un chat en vivo, se muestra un lado “humano” como parte de la marca corporativa. Adicionalmente, se ha comprobado, que las empresas que ofrecen servicios adecuados de chat, tienen un crecimiento del 6%.

En el lado opuesto, está un 47% de consumidores que se queja por no tener una experiencia positiva de chat y no se debe a las respuestas que pueda dar la persona encargada de informar o atender, sino, a cómo las escribe o manifiesta, lo que puede desmejorar la experiencia del cliente en un amplio porcentaje.  Esa mala experiencia puede tornarse aún más dramática, si la persona encargada de la atención en chat no tiene los conocimientos de NETiqueta en cuanto a atención y servicio en redes se refiere; y dicha experiencia podría convertirse en desastrosa por no tener la capacidad de asumir que se está tratando con un cliente que manifiesta una necesidad, en muchos casos, cargada de emociones que no podemos ver, pero, que se deben prevenir respondiendo con las medidas necesarias. El no hacerlo por falta de conocimiento, ocasiona un gran perjuicio en el crecimiento empresarial, pero este tema, será tratado ampliamente, en otro acápite.

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Writer by Wilfredo Pérez, Teacher, communicator, and consultant in protocol, ceremonial, social etiquette, and public relations.

3 June 2022, Peru 

Category: Business Protocol 

Reference: WP03062022BP

Translation and review by Eric Muhia

“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”

PERCEPTION ABOUT SUCCESS

Success is related to the conclusion of notable professional performances in our society. Consequently, there is a perception that it should be reflected in the possession of material goods, status, power, fame, and other components. For this reason, it is convenient to develop a discrepant notion.

It is common to meet people -of all ages, origins, and conditions- who work, save and struggle to achieve it. There is the mistaken impression that Success is distant, unattainable, and, by the way, is associated with comfort and social prestige.

The prosperous Mexican tycoon Carlos Slim Helú -one of the richest men in the world- offers an interesting, simple, and different appreciation: “Success has nothing to do with what many people imagine. It is not due to the noble and academic titles, nor to the inherited blood or the school where you studied. It is not due to the dimensions of your house or how many cars fit in your garage. It’s not about whether you’re a boss or a subordinate; or if you are a prominent member of social clubs. It has nothing to do with the power you wield or if you are a good administrator or speak beautifully if the lights follow you when you do it. It is not because of the clothes or if you put the dazzling acronyms that define your social status after your name. It’s not about whether you’re an entrepreneur, speak multiple languages, or are attractive, young or old.”

Likewise, in his letter to the university community (1994), he presents a profound and truthful reflection: “… Success is not doing things well or very well and having the recognition of others. It is not an external opinion; it is an internal state. It is the harmony of the soul and its emotions, which needs love, family, friendship, authenticity, integrity”.

From my point of view, the compliments, promotions, and distinctions received at a professional and work level are not always synonymous with Success. Relating it to the external is a mistake. Its full achievement is observed in the inner world of each one of us. In our personal, spiritual being and, therefore, in the attitude assumed towards life.

I like the words of the Mexican intellectual José Luis Barradas Rodríguez: “Being successful in the little things you do lifts your spirits and self-esteem and prepares you to be successful in the big things you do.” There is the central point of my reflection. Victory begins with achievements and conquests forged by perseverance and commitment inspired by self-esteem.

Purify the internal sphere of fears, suspicions, obstinacy, grudges, complexes, and negative feelings that contaminate the positive vision of tomorrow and, therefore, slow us down. Let us be able to carry out an intense internal cleaning to achieve our development and growth.

Let us avoid worrying about the external, as is usual in third-world societies. An expert with outstanding academic degrees, a good salary, car of the year, large credit cards, the latest fashions, and a member of representative social clubs, yet overwhelmed by hatred, conscience, prejudice, frustration, and family heartbreak. , etc. Will it be successful? Those who do not know the details of their sphere could probably envy their “success.”

Let’s avoid placing this qualification on a mortal only because of his labor and economic merits. Let’s look beyond what is related to work to assess other areas -we do not perceive with the naked eye- and judge what has been achieved by our peers. Let us be diligent and profound in our observations. Also, let’s take what they can make us believe about our supposed triumphs with serenity.

On more than one occasion, I think of its complex definition. Each one has, with all rights, their evaluation and interpretation that is reflected in the actions destined to achieve Success. One man may believe that Success has a job, another being a general manager, and a third becoming the company’s owner. What is questionable is necessarily “uniformizing” Success with the superficial, material, and monetary, without considering what life offers to achieve personal improvement beyond competitiveness in the labor market.

A few weeks ago, two of my students from the San Ignacio de Loyola Institute (ISIL), Allinson Liza and Fiorella Larrea -students full of commitment, talent, hope, goodwill and who feed our illusion in teaching- asked me: Which do you think What is the factor for Success? I answered: “I believe that Success is in a sum of small details. If they remember her when she leaves; if you leave a positive mark in this life; if along its path it shed seeds and others picked them up; if more people consider you their friend than those who you suppose to be their friends; if he manages to get up every day with a clear conscience, exhibiting clean hands and pockets; if you have inner peace and enjoy your work, you are successful. In such a way that my definition differs from the one that, by custom, is had in our environment”. Welcome Success, dear reader.

http://wperezruiz.blogspot.com/

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Writer by Wilfredo Peréz, teacher and consultant in organizing events, protocol, professional image, and social etiquette.

31 May 2022,  Peru 

Category: Business Etiquette 

Reference: WP31052022BE    Photography: Aziz  Acharki

“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”

THE IMPACT OF CHINA ON AFRICAN HEALTH DIPLOMACY

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Africa accounts for a quarter of global communicable and non-communicable disease mortality and morbidity burdens. Still, its share of global health expenditure is less than 1%, leaving more than half of its population without access to essential health services.

Defining Health Diplomacy

The practice of health diplomacy seeks to prioritize the healthcare aspects of humanitarian aid as a mechanism for political and economic negotiations between donor and recipient countries. Health diplomacy is defined as any healthcare activity with the underlying intention of improving political, economic, and cultural ties between donor and recipient countries by the donor state’s foreign policy.

Health crises are a significant focus of contests for global influence, especially in the global South, where such crises are most acute. This necessitates a focus on international health diplomacy arenas and the power struggles that emerge from them, including the often-overlooked agency of African actors within these arenas. The nineteenth-century economic and trade policies relating to maritime quarantines were some of the first examples of historical health diplomacy. The early international health relations were focused on “international collaboration to protect human and commercial interests against the spread of specific infectious diseases.”

China, Africa, and Health Diplomacy

The overarching concern in global health work that does engage with Africa is perceptions and reactions to Africa as a threat to global health and a site for diplomacy. Typically, the continent is seen as being ‘acted on’ by the West8 and, more recently, three other powerful global actors, including China.

China has a long, often unacknowledged history of providing foreign aid to Africa, building on a shared colonial experience to forge what China refers to as mutually beneficial partnerships. Current health sector assistance accounts for more than a quarter of China’s African foreign aid. Although all donor countries claim that their foreign policy and health diplomacy are motivated by mutual benefit for the donor and recipient, China’s intentions in Africa have drawn scrutiny, particularly from the West. China’s health diplomacy differs from that of the West.

China’s health diplomacy differs from that of the West in three ways: a) ideologically, b) technologically (specific interventions and technological transfers), and c) structurally (execution and implementation).

Ideologically
China’s health diplomacy is guided by a specific ideological understanding of aid’s function, structure, and role in diplomatic relations that emerged in the 1950s. The ideologies embedded in China’s foreign policy and health diplomacy stem from Beijing’s specific political agenda and a distinctively “Asian” perspective on foreign policy.

Technologically
Aside from ideological differences, the actual health care interventions and health diplomacy structure further distinguish Chinese and Western health diplomacy. China’s interventions and technology transfer to Africa have been markedly different from those transferred by the West. Professional human resources have always played an essential role in Sino-African health diplomacy.

Structurally
There are structural differences between Chinese and Western health diplomacy as well. Whereas Western health assistance is a mix of public, private, and multilateral sources, China’s health diplomacy is almost entirely public. It is frequently decentralized to the level of a Chinese province. A Chinese province is usually paired with one or more African countries.

The rise of China has presented opportunities to African states, and recent Chinese interest in the Malawian health sector – including the provision of medical expertise to Kamuzu Central Hospital and Mzuzu Central Hospital, as well as Malaria eradication initiatives – provides opportunities for actors in the Ministry of Health, despite the withdrawal of traditional donors’ support. The ‘Beijing Consensus’ of non-interference and respect for sovereignty appeals to African governments such as Malawi as a break from traditional donors’ ‘tied aid,’ which includes prerequisites such as political liberalization or economic reforms (except for the ‘one China policy’).

African governments have a role to play.

Typically, the prospective recipient government initiates the process of health diplomacy. In general, an African government will propose a health project based on assessing their population’s needs. As a result, if the receiving government is looking for CMTs (Chinese Medical Teams), they will specify what practitioners and specialists they need and where they want them to work. The Chinese government then evaluates whether it can meet the proposal’s human and material resource availability demands. For this structure, interventions are frequently recipient-led from the start. They are thus more context-appropriate than if China designed a healthcare intervention based on its assessment of local needs. The increased specificity of this process may help to inform Western health diplomacy.

Diplomatic Response in Health Diplomacy

There is widespread agreement that improved governance of health systems is required to respond to the increasing frequency of global health threats, both at the national and international levels. The increased spread of globalization has resulted in an intensification of cross-border health threats that exceed the ability of any single country or organization to address the health threats that they face. However, the new approach to promoting a universal agenda for inclusive, sustainable development that applies equally to all countries is as important as the individual Goals. In this regard, the new Goals are unique in that they call for action by all countries, rich and poor, to promote prosperity while protecting the environment, which was not the case with the MDGs. Whereas health diplomacy is central to China’s soft power, shadow diplomacy allows us to understand better how these newer global actors use global health diplomacy to consolidate their influence in Africa.

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Writer by Eric Muhia, International Studies and Diplomacy Graduate Student

27 May 2022, Kenya 

Category: Diplomacy 

Reference: EM27052022D    

“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”

CHALLENGES OF PROTOCOL IN THE XXI CENTURY (II)

Continuing with the series of articles on the protocol’s challenges, we will now discuss the second: a lack of scientific literature. If you haven’t already, we’ll leave a link to the previous article at the end of this text.

Link to the first article: https://protocoltoday.nl/challenges-of-protocol-in-the-xxi-century-i/

The Second Challenge Is A Lack Of Scientific Literature.

More than one of you has probably wondered why this is a negative fact. The scientific method is currently used to build knowledge in modern societies. It is the only way to ensure that the conclusions we arrive at and the facts we refute are objective and universal. This is how medical science, psychology, and other sciences have progressed.

Since protocol is an extremely useful discipline, there has never been a need to register and study it. There are numerous protocol manuals available today. Still, the problem is that they are written from the author’s professional experience rather than from the objectivity provided by science. As a result, they are works that are subjective and individualistic. Not that what they say is incorrect, but it only represents the plot of reality experienced by the author.

Despite claims to the contrary, the protocol’s second challenge is not unique. Sierra Sánchez and Sotelo González (2008) investigated the protocol’s status at the legal and professional levels. Their first conclusion is that studying the protocol’s subject is difficult due to a lack of scientific and academic material on which to base one’s research on. The odd thing about the subject is that the authors cite López Nieto, who came to the same conclusion 23 years earlier.

lvarez Rodrguez (2008), on the other hand, studied the discipline’s extensive bibliography until 2006, which met two requirements: Spanish authors and specific protocol and ceremonial material. The result was 170 works, and her analysis concluded that there was a lack of titles whose authors were associated with the university, as well as near non-existence of books considered of a scientific-theoretical type, leaving the rest, the vast majority, as a bibliography resulting from the author’s professional experience (or lack thereof).

Ramos Fernández (2014) later reflects on the protocolary bibliography in a scientific article. He believes that the bibliographic market can be improved and claims that the existing literature is primarily composed of many monographs that have the character of a practical or descriptive manual on a wide range of topics but do not always go into the reasoning behind their statements. In other words, they lack scientific rigour.

Pulido Polo’s work is another in this vein (2015). She analyses the existing literature in the field and comes to three conclusions:

  • The first is the same conclusion that the other authors have reached since 1985: a lack of scientific literature on the discipline.
  • On the other hand, she points out that the works created thus far have very little depth when it comes to the subject of study.
  • Finally, he adds that many of these works have poor methodological quality, lacking well-constructed methodological designs in which the scientific methods and techniques used to develop them are properly defined.

As a result, this challenge has a direct impact. This creates a serious situation that threatens the discipline and has not improved in more than thirty years: a lack of terminological agreement. Each author defines protocol and its elements differently, making it difficult to learn about protocol and its professional development. You will find ten different protocol definitions and related concepts if you read ten protocol books. That is not possible. We require a unity of concepts based on science to build profession and science in the same direction.

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BIOGRAPHY

Álvarez Rodríguez, M. L. (2008). Nociones de protocolo desde la bibliografía de sus autoridades. Revista Latina de Comunicación Social, (63), 165-173. Recuperado de http://www.revistalatinacs.org/_2008/15_08_Vigo/ML_Alvarez_Rodriguez.html

Pulido Polo, M. (2015). Ceremonial y protocolo: métodos y técnicas de investigación científica. Revista de Comunicación Vivat Academia, 65, 1137-1156.

Ramos Fernández, F. (2014). El Protocolo como ciencia propia en el ecosistema de la Comunicación. Espacios posibles para transformar una técnica en una disciplina científica. Estudios sobre el Mensaje Periodístico, 19(2), 1075-1089. https://doi.org/10.5209/rev_ESMP.2013.v19.n2.43489

Sierra Sánchez, J., & Sotelo González, J. (2008). El Estado Actual Del Protocolo a Nivel Jurídico Y Profesional. ICONO 14 – Revista de comunicación y nuevas tecnologias, 11, 41.

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Writer by Daniel Delmás, Specialist in Protocol and Events

25 May 2022, The Netherlands

Category: Business Protocol

Reference: DD25052022BP   

Photography: Fallon Michael

“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN DIPLOMACY

Artificial intelligence has applications in defence, intelligence, homeland security, diplomacy, surveillance, cybersecurity, information, and economic statecraft. Diplomacy, long regarded as the primary tool of international relations, is impacted by AI on three levels: it has become a subject of the action; it conditions diplomacy itself, and it prepares the environment in which it is practised.

Evolution

“artificial intelligence” (AI) has received much attention ” artificial intelligence “. As exaggerated as the public hype can be, there is genuine technological progress behind it: computer processor performance increases year after year, as are advanced in-memory technology and research into AI algorithms. To summarise, it is now possible to process more data faster than ever before – with consequences that can already be seen in everyday life, such as facial and speech recognition.

Diplomacy has long been a part of the digital revolution. To meet the challenges and opportunities that come with it, it is adapting its cultural references, operational methods, practices, structures, and initiatives. With AI’s integration into all aspects of society, it will inevitably impact diplomacy. The more profound AI is integrated into society, the greater the impact on the context in which diplomats operate.

AI Implications on Diplomatic Practice

Artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved into a tool of power politics and a component of state diplomacy.

AI as a tool for diplomatic practice: AI examines how it can support diplomats’ diplomatic functions and day-to-day tasks. In times of crisis, AI systems could be of great assistance to diplomats by assisting them in making sense of what is going on (descriptive analytics) and identifying potential trends (predictive analytics)

AI as a topic for diplomatic negotiations: Today, AI is still prone to error and will not be able to replace the judgement of experienced diplomats in the foreseeable future. However, as a supplementary tool, AI has the potential to make an invaluable contribution to the preparation and conduct of diplomatic negotiations.

AI as a factor influencing the environment in which diplomacy is practised: As a factor influencing the environment in which diplomacy is practised, AI has the potential to be the defining technology of our time, with the potential to reshape the foundation of the international order.

As a diplomatic topic, AI is relevant to a broader policy plan that includes everything from the economy, business, and security to democracy, human rights, and ethics. In assisting diplomats and other foreign policy professionals with internal and external text document analysis, speech analysis, content and framing input, catching spam and unwanted messages, identifying hate speech, and combating the spread of terrorism content on social media platforms.

Threats of AI as a diplomatic tool.

Artificial intelligence threatens international security and social, economic, and military activities. This means that governments, as the primary actors in a global society, must reconsider their foreign policies, diplomacy, and international cooperation in light of the new challenges posed by the malicious use of AI in various domains, particularly global psychological security. This threat is a crucial feature of the new cold war, defined by the race toward AI. Given the rise of new technological and economic forces, which means the emergence of new players and new rules of international relations, a new international order is taking shape. However, the malicious use of AI poses new challenges for states as the primary actors in international relations, given the emergence of new concepts such as artificial diplomacy, data sovereignty, cybersecurity, and cyberwar. For example, AI can assist diplomats in data processing, but it cannot completely replace the human factor. AI is incapable of reaching a compromise, and it is deaf to perception, intuition, and risk-taking. Human diplomats can detect the undetectable, see the invisible, and notice the unnoticeable, which AI systems cannot, at least not shortly.

Revolutionising Diplomatic Dialogues through AI

A dialogue must be added and organised based on the cognitive and analytical elements made available to operators by the digital revolution, from Big Data to the algorithms used in Artificial Intelligence. A dialogue of this type allows a diplomat to understand better his interlocutors’ history, cultures, attitudes, mentality, aspirations, and interests—that is, the citizens of the area in which he conducts his activity in favour of his state. In this regard, it should not be forgotten that, according to the most recent statistics, more than three billion people worldwide use Facebook, Twitter, Qzone, Snapchat, and other social media platforms daily.

It is the evolution of a forward-thinking diplomatic system. Many governments have advocated for establishing structures suited to these new responsibilities within foreign ministries and embassies worldwide. For example, the US State Department launched a Task Force on eDiplomacy in 2002, later becoming the Office of eDiplomacy. A visit to the official State Department website demonstrates how important, and complex the mechanism of American digital diplomacy has become. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) in the United Kingdom also has a separate Office of Digital Diplomacy.

The role of artificial intelligence in improving consular and diplomatic relations

From an AI standpoint, consular services could be low-hanging fruit for AI integration in diplomacy. Decisions are amenable to digitisation, the analytical contribution is reasonably relevant, and the technology encourages user-machine collaboration. Consular services rely on highly structured decisions. They primarily involve recurring and routinised operations based on clear and stable procedures that do not need to be treated as new each time a decision is required. By lowering language barriers between countries, AI can help improve communication between governments and foreign publics, increase the security of diplomatic missions through image recognition and information sorting technologies, and support international humanitarian operations by monitoring elections, assisting in peacekeeping operations, and ensuring that financial aid disbursements are not misused through anomaly detection. AI-assisted consular services may incorporate declarative (know-what) and procedural knowledge (know-how) to automate routinised operations and scaffold human cognition by reducing cognitive effort. This can be accomplished by using data mining and data discovery techniques to organise the data and enable the identification of patterns and relationships that would otherwise be difficult to detect.

Can Artificial Intelligence (AI) open new doors for the practice of diplomacy? Throughout history, “diplomacy” has meant the efforts of human communities to peacefully reconcile their interests with one another before or after attempting to enforce them by force.

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Writer by Eric MUHIA, International Studies and Diplomacy Graduate Student

10 May 2022, Kenya  

Category: Diplomacy  

Reference: EM10052022D

Photography: Rene Bohme

“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”