Professional Diplomacy: A Call for its Reinforcement

Abstract

This article appeals for the return and reinforcement of professional diplomacy in Africa. The practice of diplomacy has become somewhat anachronistic, confirming the low regard governments currently have for the profession. An analysis of contemporary international diplomacy shows that many of the earlier problems can also be traced to the African, and specifically the South African, diplomatic service. The purpose of this article is not to address all these problems, but to highlight a few of the more serious ones. Four models are presented with suggestions as to how (South) Africa could adapt its diplomatic practices to greater effect. In conclusion the article asks whether the present ‘onslaughts’ against diplomacy will succeed in making it redundant.