The Future

Abstract

Diplomacy exists in practice. Savvy countries have used technology to ‘embed’ the embassy in the foreign ministry; elsewhere too, the embassy has gained in importance in external policy management. A counter trend favors direct exchanges among leaders and among foreign ministry officials, leaving embassies out of the loop. Gender issues affect the functioning of foreign ministries and embassies. Countries are concerned with the capacity of their diplomatic networks, and their efficacy. Training is a determinant of capacity. What constitutes an ideal embassy? We posit this in terms of embassies that are ‘enlightened, empowered, and efficient’, elaborating these characteristics. The chapter concludes with assessing future trends: radical change is unlikely; but we are likely to see a focus on improved performance, better mutual learning among foreign ministries, and improved appreciation of the value embassies deliver as cost-effective promoters of national interests.