What do you understand by the term `diplomatic machinery`? What are its functions?

Functions of Diplomacy

Diplomacy performs multifarious functions . Hans J . Morgenthau refers to four functions of diplomacy and its machineries (1960 , 519 ) - (1 Diplomacy must determine its objectives in the light of power actually and potentially available for the pursuit of these objectives (2 diplomacy must assess the objectives of other nations and the power actually and potentially available for the pursuit of those objectives (3 ) diplomacy must determine to what extent these different objectives are compatible with each other (4 ) diplomacy must employ the means suited to the pursuit of its

objectives

Failure in any one of these tasks may jeopardize the success of foreign policy . The diplomatic machinery fulfills three basic functions for its government which are discussed hereunder as follows

Symbolic Representation : The diplomat is , first of all , the symbolic representation of his country . As such , he must continuously perform symbolic functions . These functions help to test the prestige which his nation enjoys abroad and the prestige with which the nation regards the country to whose government he is accredited . For example , the symbolic function of diplomacy to lavish entertainments most diplomatic missions offer to the members of the government to which they are accredited , to the fellow diplomats and to the influential citizens of the capital where the mission is located

Legal Representation : The diplomatic machinery acts as the legal representative of its government . It may be authorized to conduct negotiation and to sign treaty . It may represent its nation at any international conference and cast their vote according to the instructions of their government . The diplomats provide legal protections to the citizens of their country abroad . This functions which involves protecting the lives and promoting the interests of nationals residing or travelling abroad is a routine task although during catastrophe or civil diss , the role...