Q.6 Explain the following diagram in the light of multi-track diplomacy. Which is the most important track of diplomacy and why. 2019
The diagram in question is the “Eight Track Model of Diplomacy” which is a framework for understanding the different forms of diplomacy that can be used to address complex issues and conflicts. The model was developed by Louise Diamond and John McDonald in the early 1990s and has been widely used in the field of conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
The Eight Track Model of Diplomacy identifies eight different tracks or channels through which diplomacy can be conducted:
- Track One Diplomacy: This refers to official, high-level diplomacy conducted by government officials and diplomats.
- Track Two Diplomacy: This refers to unofficial diplomacy conducted by non-governmental actors such as academics, civil society organizations, and religious leaders.
- Track Three Diplomacy: This refers to people-to-people diplomacy, which involves building relationships and trust between individuals and communities across borders.
- Track Four Diplomacy: This refers to public diplomacy, which involves shaping public opinion and building support for diplomatic initiatives.
- Track Five Diplomacy: This refers to business diplomacy, which involves leveraging economic interests and incentives to advance diplomatic goals.
- Track Six Diplomacy: This refers to cultural diplomacy, which involves promoting understanding and appreciation of different cultures and values.
- Track Seven Diplomacy: This refers to ecological diplomacy, which involves promoting environmental sustainability and addressing global ecological challenges.
- Track Eight Diplomacy: This refers to digital diplomacy, which involves using digital technologies and social media platforms to advance diplomatic initiatives.
In the context of multi-track diplomacy, each of these tracks is seen as having a role to play in addressing complex issues and conflicts. Rather than relying solely on Track One Diplomacy, multi-track diplomacy recognizes the importance of engaging a range of actors and stakeholders in the diplomatic process. By using multiple tracks of diplomacy, it is possible to build more inclusive, collaborative, and sustainable approaches to conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
It is difficult to identify a single “most important” track of diplomacy as each track has its own strengths and limitations, and the importance of each track will depend on the specific context and issue being addressed. However, it is generally recognized that Track One Diplomacy is often seen as the most powerful and influential form of diplomacy, as it involves official state actors with the authority and resources to make and implement decisions. At the same time, Track One Diplomacy is often criticized for being too top-down and exclusive, and for failing to take into account the perspectives and concerns of non-state actors and marginalized communities. Thus, the use of multiple tracks of diplomacy is seen as essential for building more inclusive and sustainable solutions to complex issues and conflicts.
