By James Sunday, FCAI, MNIIA
Nations do not speak only common languages; they also align with the universal language of diplomacy. This is why every country in the world sends accredited diplomats to nations where they have a High Commission, Embassy, or Consulate. In places where they have no diplomatic presence, friendly countries can assist in carrying out delegated diplomatic services, or citizens can seek help from the nearest country where their nation is represented.
The role of diplomats is as vital as the existence of states. Diplomacy underscores the significance of sovereignty and national identity. Citizens of failed or stateless nations often lack diplomatic representation, as they do not have diplomats or ambassadors to represent them anywhere in the world. This is why countries strive to remain relevant, active, and aligned with the world order that guarantees peace, safety, and security for all.
Ambassadors and diplomats are essential to the governance of nations. They act as emissaries, links, facilitators, eyes, mouthpieces, and bonds between their countries and others. For smooth communication and healthy international relationships, countries must maintain diplomatic relations and cooperation. This is the foundation for appointing ambassadors and diplomats. Other officials on foreign missions serve as deputies or support staff, carrying out administrative and secretarial duties, including protocol, security, VIP assistance, attaché services, and other responsibilities under the ambassador.
The drivers of a country’s foreign policy are the ambassadors, who take directives from the Minister of Foreign Affairs. The minister serves as the eyes of the President or Head of Government. He or she briefs the President and receives instructions for onward communication to missions abroad. The minister supervises, monitors, and deploys, upon the approval of the home government, men and women of impeccable character to serve on foreign missions. These individuals must be trustworthy, sound, professional, trained, and educated in the art and science of diplomacy. It is a specialised service that requires proper training to avoid diplomatic disputes, scandals, or breaches of international relations.
A diplomat who is no longer in good standing with the host country is recalled and classified as persona non grata, a person whose stay is no longer welcome. From that moment, the diplomat ceases to enjoy immunity and must leave the host country. A replacement is sent if the bilateral relationship remains intact. However, the withdrawal of a diplomat may strain relations between two countries that were once friendly. This underscores the power and sensitivity of diplomacy.