DIPLOMATIC LAW AND PRACTICE OF DIPLOMACY IN A NEW GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Abstract

In  the  new  world  order,  diplomatic  law  and  practice  of  diplomacy  is  facing challenges,  shifting  power  structures, and diffusing information. In this respect, diplomatic strategies are evolving with new realities, taking cognizance of globalization,  new  technologies,  information,  conflicts  and  other  social  problems  confronting  theStates.  The objective  of  this  paper  is  to  assess  the  impact  of  new  global  changes  in  the  conduct  diplomatic  relation  among States. Its aim is also to situate diplomatic practice of the new era with the new influence and sophistication of cities and the force of democracy. In doing this, the paper adopts doctrinal methodology of research which takes insider view  of  diplomatic  law  and  the  fact  that  law  cannot  be  studied  in  isolation.  As  the  world  has  become  a  global village,  the  spread  of  culture,  education and  increase  in  media  outlets,  diplomatic  law  and  practice  has  changed. The  paper concludes that the  orthodox  methods of conducting diplomatic relation between and among states have been infected by  changing world realities hence the  need to reorder priorities. It recommends the  training and re-training  of  diplomats  to  adapt  to  changing  situations.  The  States  also  have  to  formulate  policies  that  recognize today’s  security  problems;  more  democratic  world  and  keep  on  adjusting  to  the  dictates  of  ever  changingenvironment.