Theory and Practice of Diplomacy

Paper Code: 
DPOL702(B)
Credits: 
06
Contact Hours: 
90.00
Max. Marks: 
100.00
Objective: 

The  objectives of this course are to build an understanding of the complex historical development of modern diplomatic practice. To cultivate a sophisticated understanding of the employment of diplomacy in contemporary international relations. To familiarise students with the activities of a modern diplomat within a wider historical and theoretical context

Course Outcomes: 

Course

Learning outcomes

(at course level)

Learning and teaching strategies

Assessment Strategies

Course Code

Course Title

25DPOL 702(B)

Theory and Practice of Diplomacy

(Theory)

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

CO67: Understand the definition, objectives, features, and limitations of diplomacy in international relations, along with its evolving role in global affairs

CO68:  Analyze various forms of diplomacy, including democratic, summit, and conference diplomacy, as well as the evolution from 'Old' to 'New' diplomacy and the role of propaganda.

CO69: Examine the roles, qualities, functions, privileges, and immunities of diplomatic agents, along with the process of treaty formation, ratification, accession, and termination

CO70: Evaluate the impact of contemporary challenges such as terrorism, human rights issues, environmental concerns, and foreign policy on the practice of diplomacy

CO71: Explore the structure, organization, and functions of the MEA in India, assessing its role in shaping foreign policy and diplomacy.

CO72: contribute effectively in Course specific interaction

Approach in teaching:

Interactive Lectures, Discussion, Tutorials, Reading assignments, Power Point Presentation

 

Learning activities for the students:

Self-learning assignments, Seminar presentation.

Class test, Semester end examinations, Quiz, Solving problems in tutorials, Assignments, Presentation, Individual and group projects
 
18.00
Unit I: 
Introduction

                                                                                      

Diplomacy in International relations: definition; objectives; features, future and limits of Diplomacy

18.00
Unit II: 
Types of Diplomacy

democratic diplomacy; summit diplomacy; conference diplomacy; 

Diplomacy: 'Old' & 'New’, Concept and forms of Propaganda 

18.00
Unit III: 
Diplomatic Agents

Qualities; functions; Classes, Privileges and Immunities

Diplomatic transactions- Treaties: formation and ratification; accession and termination

18.00
Unit IV: 
Challenges to Diplomacy

 Terrorism and diplomacy; diplomacy and human rights; diplomacyof environment; Diplomacy and foreign policy.

18.00
Unit V: 
Foreign Service

                                                                                          

Foreign office with special reference to the Organization and functions of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India.

Essential Readings: 
  • Kaul, T.N. (2016). Diplomacy in Peace and War: Recollections and Reflections. New Delhi: Gyan publishing House
  • Holmes, A.andRofe, J.S. (2016). Global Diplomacy: Theories, Types, and Models. Colorado: Westview Press.
  • Berridge, G. R.(2015) Diplomacy Theory and Practice. London: Palgrave Macmillan.

 

References: 
  • Heatly, D.P. (2018). Diplomacy and the Study of International Relations. Victoria, Australia: Trieste Publishing.
  • Bjola, C.andKornprobst, M. (2018). Understanding International Diplomacy: Theory, Practice and Ethics. London: Routledge.
  • Steiner, B.H.(2018). Diplomatic Theory: A Focused Comparison Approach. Maryland: Rowman& Littlefield Publishers.
  • Bjola, C.and Holmes, M. (2015). Digital Diplomacy: Theory and Practice. London: Routledge.
  • Satow, E.M. (2015). A Guide to Diplomatic Practice .Australia: Andesite Press.
  • Jones, P. (2015). Track Two Diplomacy in Theory and Practice.Palo Alto, California: Stanford University Press.
  • Kerr, P. and Wiseman, G. (2013). Diplomacy in a Globalizing World: Theories and Practices. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press.
  • Yang, J. (2013). China's Diplomacy: Theory and Practice. New Jersey: World Century Publishing Corporation.
  • Sharp, P. (2012). Diplomatic Theory of International Relations. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
  • Bull, H. (2012). The Anarchical Society: A Study of Order in World Politics, New York: Columbia University Press
  • Berridge, G.R., Keens-Soper,H.M.A. and Thomas G. O.(2011). Diplomatic Theory from Machiavelli to Kissinger. London: Palgrave Macmillan.
  • Hamilton, K. and Langhorne, R.(2011). The Practice of Diplomacy: Its Evolution, Theory and Administration . London: Routledge.
Academic Year: 
2025-26
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