Non‐State Actors and Diplomacy

Abstract

“Club diplomacy,” in which diplomats interact primarily with other members of the profession and government officials, is giving way to “network diplomacy,” in which diplomats need to engage with an expanded set of non‐state actors. These, in turn, engage in diplomatic activity vis‐à‐vis each other, governments, and international organizations. Transnational actors, operating across state boundaries while not being controlled by state governments, include both non‐profit actors, such as non‐governmental organizations (NGOs), and profit‐oriented actors, such as transnational firms. Other non‐state actors are located at a level below the state (subnational) or above the state (supranational). The term “paradiplomacy” is sometimes used to refer to the diplomatic activity of subnational actors, such as cities and federated entities. The European Union is thus far the only example of a supranational actor enjoying full diplomatic recognition.

Exploring Paradiplomacy Pathways: Local Government and Foreign Direct Investment Corporation Partnerships for Sustainable Development

“…The emergence of modern diplomacy is attributed to this phenomenon, which has resulted in a more adaptable approach and the involvement of diverse diplomatic actors, including local governments (Jönsson, 2018). The unique geographical location of Indonesia, characterised by a vast expanse of islands and seas, presents a formidable obstacle for the government in its quest to achieve an equitable distribution of development and social welfare across all sectors and regions, particularly in the face of intense competition for development resources (Fathun, 2016).…”