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”

MODERN BUSINESS EVOLUTION

Millennials & Gen Z: The Game Changers

The digital age of accessible information brought ground-breaking changes to how we live our everyday lives, the way we communicate, and the dynamic pace of change we are expected to keep up with. Looking back at the history and the previous generations, from the cradle to the grave- not much would change.

If the Boomers and Gen X thought the 20th century was a rollercoaster of space flight, colour television and flip phone- the 21st century is a remarkable metamorphosis. The entire spectrum of subtitles and far-reaching changes proved to be axiomatically indispensable. From the perspective of conducting business in the global economy- standing still means moving backwards. Whilst tailored suits, shiny lease cars, office environments, business cards, and proper handshakes still matter, they are far removed from the primary expectations of a modern business and the very definition of success.

The Millennials (born 1981- 1996) and especially Gen Z (born 1997-2012) brought and will continue to bring immense disruption to business and job markets within the next decade. Corporations must adjust to their employees, consumers and influencers, who outright reject the old status symbols and genuinely want to make a positive difference in the world. Creativity, environment, cultural diversity, empathy, and work-life balance are amongst the most important aspects of Millennials and Gen Z life. Often branded as ‘snowflakes’, privileged and over-sensitive by the older generations, the derogatory undertone doesn’t seem to faze or startle them. Their heads might be in the clouds, but the gravity is firmly centred on moving away from the old world.

There is a lot to be learned and some things unlearned, to put this simply into a business etiquette term. Having chameleon-like skills, being well informed on social issues, and the ability to communicate on all levels are at the very top of my list. Traditional formalities are a small fraction of the overall picture when conducting and communicating in business, reserved for the highest level of governments and conventional corporate structures. However, social awareness, commitment to sustainability, diversity, equality, and inclusion are the driving force behind modern business etiquette on a large scale.

At times, the change, as it’s always been, maybe challenging and uncomfortable, but it’s very rarely unnecessary. Depending on where you are in the business spectrum of today’s modern society, the landscape has shifted for both employees and employers. The most evident proof of this is the global reaction to the current conflict in Europe. This is a prime example of a centuries-old, traditionally profit-orientated culture turning its backs on injustice, aggression and suffering of innocent people. An overwhelming proportion of corporations across the globe choose to do the right thing at a very high cost of profit. This unorthodox move is intensely welcomed, encouraged and supported by large populations worldwide, who refuse to ignore this deplorable abuse. Companies rapidly transform and gain lifelong loyal customers, consumers, business partners, and employees.

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Writer by Anastasia MARTEL, Etiquette and Protocol Specialist

08 May 2022, United Kingdom 

Category: Business Etiquette 

Reference: AM08052022BE   

Photography: Bryan-goff

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

QUALITY FIRST IMPRESSIONS  

As the business world slowly reopens post-Covid, many people are finding the need for in-person connections for job interviews, first day on the job, career fairs or maybe networking events. Whatever the reason for your face-to-face interactions, be prepared to make your connection a standout exchange. Here are six steps to help you make quality first impressions as you approach others.

Stand during an introduction- Unless you are at the dining table or have some impairment that might cause difficulty doing so, you should stand. It is not only a professional thing to do; it’s a courteous gesture that shows respect to the other person. It lets the other person know you are eager to meet them.

Smile – It improves your face value! A smile is a universal language. You may be wearing a designer dress or a custom-tailored suit, but a warm smile is a valuable and positive feature that will add volumes to your appearance. It lets others know you are friendly.

Make Eye Contact – Avoid looking down at the floor or the scenery behind the person. Look people in their eyes during an introduction and when holding a conversation with them. It helps build your confidence and shows your interest in others—many people with low self-esteem struggle in this area. If you need help, try this tip; when talking with someone, look at the bridge of the person’s nose. It looks like you are still looking into their eyes.

Shake Hands – It shows excellent manners to shake hands with the person you meet. Shake with your right hand, which is acceptable by most cultures globally.

Shake for approximately 2-3 seconds or two up and down hand pumps. No wimpy wilted fish handshakes and no bone-crushing ones either! If you tend to have clammy hands, dry them before shaking someone’s hand. Keep a handkerchief or tissue in your hand for a quick dry-off before a shake. No one wants to shake a wet hand.

Say Your Name – Say both your first and last names. If you have an honorific or title such as Dr. or Mrs. or a designation such as PhD, M.D., or Esq., avoid using it for yourself while making general introductions. Just give your name. You may use the honorific if necessary in the introduction, such as a doctor meeting a patient’s family for the first time.

Repeat Their Name – When introduced, repeat the person’s name to make sure you pronounce it correctly. It also helps you remember their name and makes the other person feel respected. When parting, repeat their name and let them know it was a pleasure meeting them.  If you forget a person’s name, apologise, and ask them to repeat their name for you. By the way, if someone mispronounces your name, kindly correct them. No harm done.

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Writer by Renita Jackson, Etiquette Specialist.

02 May 2022,  U.S.A 

Category: Business Etiquette 

Reference: RJ02052022BE    

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

THE FUTURE OF MULTILATERAL DIPLOMACY

“Diplomacy has expanded its remit, moving far beyond bilateral political relations between states into a multilateral, multifaceted enterprise encompassing almost every realm of human endeavour,” said former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan.

Multilateral diplomacy takes various forms: some are more institutional, such as the United Nations, while others are less formal and less identifiable in terms of parameters and rules. These latter are extremely difficult for African states, even though these fora, such as the World Economic Forum or G20, are extremely influential. It is the practice of involving more than two nations or parties in pursuing diplomatic solutions to supranational problems. Since multilateral diplomacy is a rapidly evolving industry, new forms regularly emerge, making it difficult to describe all types comprehensively.

Actors: Sovereign states remain the primary actors in multilateral diplomacy, but non-state actors such as non-governmental organisations, civil society representatives, and the business community are increasingly involved. Despite the importance of adhering to the constitutive acts of various international organisations, including their rules of procedure, multilateral diplomacy embraces new forms of interaction regularly, reflecting the need for flexibility and rapid adaptability to a dynamic environment.

Methods: In today’s world, only a tiny portion of multilateral diplomatic activity occurs in formal and solemn settings. The interaction between various actors takes many forms, including informal contacts and spontaneous coalitions of the willing.

Diplomatic Hubs

Diplomatic hubs in New York, Geneva, and Vienna will remain important in the future. Diplomats on the ground are critical, especially during the lockdown and social distancing. While diplomatic hubs, like all diplomatic practices, face both continuity and change, we can say that they are now more important than ever. Acknowledging context and nuance in multilateral diplomacy and dealing with contentious issues and crises necessitates an on-the-ground presence. Diplomatic presence at multilateral hubs is critical due to significant time differences between multilateral hubs and some capitals and potential future travel restrictions. Diplomatic representation at key multilateral institutions is also symbolic, signalling a commitment to multilateralism for functional and normative reasons.

Multilateral diplomacy by video conference: practices, procedures, protocol, and platforms

At the heart of the diplomatic practice is the ability to overcome communication barriers and positional distances. As a result, mediating physical distance and video conferencing challenges is a new diplomatic task, one for which diplomats are already prepared as “mediators of estrangement.” Negotiating the modalities of in-person, hybrid, and online meetings have become a new challenge for multilateral institution and meeting chairs and presidents. As the Human Rights Council (HRC) demonstrates, committed leadership and ongoing dialogue with member states to build trust are critical ingredients in successfully navigating the changed circumstances.

The diplomatic protocol has adapted to social distancing measures, such as reorganising and framing photo opportunities at high-level meetings. While this complicates meeting organisation, it does not call into question established protocol rules. Since some diplomatic practice has shifted toward video conferencing, key challenges include addressing security concerns, adapting to changes in communication and negotiation dynamics, providing translation services, and maintaining a stable Internet connection. Concerns have been raised about creating an unequal playing field and the risk of exclusion due to bandwidth requirements and security constraints. Small and developing countries face a unique set of challenges in this regard.

State of Multilateral Diplomacy among African Countries.

Representatives from African countries are outnumbered by negotiating teams from other countries who arrive better prepared; African countries must maximise their resources and collaborate to combine their areas of expertise. Diplomats in Africa are also woefully undertrained, and organisations such as the African Union (AU) could do more to improve their members’ diplomatic skills.

African diplomats should not be naive about the world and emerging powers’ multilateral strategies. Other countries are also developing countries does not necessarily imply that they are looking out for Africa’s best interests. The rise of multistakeholder diplomacy adds to the complication. It is difficult for African countries to open to this type of international relations. Still, they must do so to have genuine grassroots representation defending their points of view and promoting their interests.

Multilateral Diplomacy and the United Nations Today

As the world faces new and ongoing challenges such as globalisation, international terrorism, and a slew of other global issues, the United Nations and its critical attribute-multilateral diplomacy-are more crucial than ever. With new and updated essays detailing the experiences of a diverse group of practitioners and scholars working in diplomacy, this emerging era covers the fundamental characteristics of multilateral diplomacy as it is conducted within the United Nations framework in even greater breadth and depth.

Today’s Multilateral Diplomacy and the United Nations offers valuable insights from various perspectives on how diplomacy is practised, making it required reading for aspiring diplomats, international business leaders, and students at all levels. This volume’s contributors bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to examine five areas of multilateral diplomacy: UN diplomacy, crisis diplomacy, international economic diplomacy, UN summits and “citizen diplomats,” and non-governmental diplomacy.

In conclusion, context is critical in multilateral diplomacy. Diplomats on the ground are far better positioned to detect and interpret nuances and signals. The incorporation and dissemination of digital tools into the practice of diplomacy has had a significant impact on multilateral diplomacy today.

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Writer by Eric Muhia, International Studies and Diplomacy Graduate Student

02 May 2022, Kenya 

Category: Diplomacy 

Reference: EM02052022D   

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