Diplomatic and International Communication

A 360-degree view on international and diplomatic communication will be attempted to unravel the mystery, nuances and uniqueness that’s relevant to this highly specialized area. There’s no denying that official diplomatic communication is something on which already there’s standardized globally acceptable handbook that guides ambassadors, high commissioners, foreign offices and related corps. A lot happens on the side especially between governments, their missions, media, think tanks, community networks, industry, trade and markets. What’s unique to communication with international bodies or stakeholders is that a big chunk happens through ‘very informal or back channels’. Global media and news networks play a significant communication role in having informed conversations internationally on issues. This chapter revolves around these networks, their challenges, work frameworks, opportunities, impact and limitations especially while working in a developing country like India. Plotting a trend analysis for these foreign media networks that serve as fulcrum for communication, dissemination of news, reporting happenings, news and events may be relevant in the context of this book on ‘communication’. Indian experience based chapter on international communication would be relevant given that the country is on cusp of laying a foundation for evolving as a developed country with huge economic, developmental, political and diplomatic heft. Communicating to the world a story or saga of India may be easier said than done. This chapter on international and diplomatic communication may serve as template for communicators internationally, both for practitioners, budding professionals and students.