Modern Diplomats: Agents, Experts, and Policy Entrepreneurs
Modern Diplomats: Agents, Experts, and Policy Entrepreneurs

Summary/Abstract: The article analyzes changes in the conditions of functioning of modern diplomatic services and their impact on the functions of diplomats and ways of achieving foreign policy goals, in particular in the field of multilateral diplomatic interactions. New telecommunication tools, the multiplicity of information sources and the growing frequency of direct interactions between governments and societies increase the requirements for diplomats. The role of diplomats as agents-intermediaries is losing its importance, while their role as the creators of cooperation in the implementation of international public policies is gaining importance. The author shows how changes in communication technologies lead to a decline in the importance of simple data collection. On the other hand, the strong interdependence of economic and social processes, external and domestic changes increases the degree of uncertainty of diplomats’ activities and opens the field for diplomats who are able to create international policies and international cooperation mechanisms.

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