What is it about?
The study of diplomacy has long been centered around the architecture of states and their external interactions, yet rapid societal transformations are reshaping its foundations. The increasing politicization of foreign policy, the rise of populism, and the growing weight of public concerns in global governance are among the forces challenging the traditional separation between the domestic and international spheres. In our theoretical exploration of the societization of diplomacy, its practice emerges not only as a tool of statecraft but also as one significantly influenced by citizens’ expectations of legitimacy, representation, and participation.
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Why is it important?
Society plays a central role in shaping diplomacy, a fact that requires recognition in both theory and practice. Ultimately, the societization perspective redefines diplomacy as a collaboratively produced effort where the state and society are deeply interconnected, continuously negotiating interests, the meaning and purposes of foreign policy, and global responsibilities.
Perspectives
It has been a real pleasure researching this paper with Hague Journal of Diplomacy Junior Fellow Lavinia Pacifici. Our collaboration has strengthened my belief in inter-generational research projects.
Jan Melissen
Leiden University and University of Antwerp
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: The Societization of Diplomacy: Transitioning Operational Landscapes, Shifting Lenses, January 2026, Springer Science + Business Media,
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-12857-7_2.
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