Diplomacy is often equated with major summit meetings, high-level negotiations, signed agreements, and partnerships. However, there exists a dimension of diplomacy that is equally critical and which has often gone unnoticed and ignored. The courtesy, reverence, and reciprocity shown towards the representatives of other nations may have a more profound influence on bilateral relations than any declaration by a country. Indeed, throughout history, the significance of mutual respect and recognition has been acknowledged in diplomacy. Today, as countries become even more connected and international diplomacy is conducted through official visits, multilateral summits, and exchange programmes between citizens, diplomatic protocol has become an indispensable means of maintaining relations of confidence.
Recently, an incident involving the Prime Minister’s Adviser, Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman, in which he was alleged to have been treated disrespectfully upon landing at New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, has revived debate on diplomatic etiquette and what can happen when perceptions of respect and honour are violated. Whatever different perspectives there may be regarding the incident, its importance stems from the fact that perceptions of protocol matter.
Diplomacy is often thought to begin only when there is an official discussion or conference. In truth, diplomacy begins well before the arrival of any official representatives. The initial stages include airports, customs checks, protocol lounges, logistics arrangements, and the treatment given to visiting representatives. There are messages communicated through all these activities. They indicate whether the individual who has come to the country is considered a partner or a colleague, or just another passenger to be dealt with. Though it is legitimate for a sovereign nation to conduct its security measures in this way, it can greatly impact diplomatic relations.
While a nation might have considerable military force, economic power, and geopolitical leverage, it might be the treatment given to visitors that dictates how they will be viewed.
It should be noted that if senior government officials participate in their countries’ official international activities, carrying a diplomatic passport may help ensure there are no travel obstacles. In this regard, Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman participated in an official international conference – but did not carry a diplomatic passport. It would mean that he was an official who travelled abroad to represent his country’s interests, and in such cases, the use of a diplomatic passport is very helpful because it usually prompts other countries to follow certain protocol requirements for an official delegation. At the same time, having a diplomatic passport does not provide immunity from security or immigration regulations required by another state.
Reciprocity is one of the earliest established bases of diplomacy. Countries tend to treat other nations’ diplomats in the same way they would want their own diplomats treated in foreign countries. Reciprocity in international relations goes beyond just a procedure. This is the pillar on which international stability depends. Predictability and reliability of diplomatic interactions come from the reciprocity principle. If countries know that their diplomats will receive fair and courteous treatment from the other side, then they will be more open to cooperation.
Reciprocity is an important element of international diplomacy and of conventions governing diplomatic interactions. Not all diplomats may have special immunities, but every representative of a nation represents its sovereignty and dignity. The treatment meted out to them reflects how the other nation views its overall diplomatic relations with that country. In such a scenario, protocol becomes an act of deference, acknowledging sovereignty, equality, and recognition.
International relations are not conducted solely through institutions. They are conducted through people. Ambassadors, ministers, advisors, negotiators, and government officials themselves become the face of their country. Impressions gathered during visits to other nations can often be influential in shaping further relations between them. The feeling of respect can encourage a diplomat to leave another country with positive impressions about it. If one is offended or inconvenienced in any way, those feelings can accompany one into future interactions. Even though diplomats do recognise the intricacies of international communication, they cannot be fully immune to the psychological impact of their experience.
The dignity of a nation remains a powerful instrument in international politics. When nations suspect their representatives of mistreatment, their governments can react fiercely to it because it evokes sympathy among their citizens. Citizens tend to view their nation’s international standing as determined by how its representatives are treated.
Modern states face legitimate security challenges. Governments have a responsibility to protect their citizens and maintain national security. Immigration checks, watch lists, and verification procedures are standard practices worldwide. Security and diplomacy do not necessarily have to be thought of as opposing ends. It is the most successful countries that achieve a delicate balance between vigilance and professionalism. It is possible to maintain an element of professionalism in implementing security without compromising courtesy, clarity, and respect. Professionalism during security screenings is particularly important when dealing with foreign officials whose presence may carry diplomatic significance. The challenge for governments is not whether to enforce security measures but how to do so in a manner that preserves confidence and goodwill.
Good interstate relations require not just diplomacy and structures but also practices of mutual respect. Governments can foster good diplomatic relations through proper training in diplomatic protocol, coordination between security and immigration agencies, and procedures for handling visiting diplomats. Another critical element in building good relations is creating a culture of diplomacy, where the importance of courtesy is recognised.
Respect for another party in a diplomatic relationship does not mean that one must agree on all matters. Countries always have disagreements over trade, borders, security, and policy objectives. The difference in mature diplomatic relations is that such disagreements do not destroy mutual respect. It is in an atmosphere of mutual respect that hard discussions occur.
Protocol, in international relations, goes well beyond being a mere formality. It can be seen as a tool to show respect and uphold the dignity of the parties involved, thereby building their trust.
How the state treats its foreign counterparts will have a much larger impact than just on the individuals concerned. Such behaviour shapes perception, the narrative, and the tone of relations between the two. In the present-day era of globalisation, politeness and reciprocity will become increasingly important.
Therein lies the truth in a very simple principle: the states that have been respectful to other states will be treated in the same manner. Politeness in diplomacy, as in every interpersonal communication, denotes maturity and confidence. The success of regional and international partnerships does not depend only on what governments discuss behind conference tables. The respect and reciprocity they demonstrate throughout all processes of contact are key to the future.
The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author
The writer is the Professor and former chair, Journalism and Mass Communications, Savannah State University, Georgia, USA. E-mail: [email protected]
