With the international system entering a period of extreme flux, diplomacy has never been more important, and how to do it successfully more relevant. This book considers what diplomacy is, its purpose, rules, structures, how it is done, what it involves, the skills required, the impact of technological and societal changes, and how diplomats ensure success. In short, it is about handling people and problems, particularly in other countries, without coming to blows. Drawing on the author’s extensive personal experience, this readable volume focuses on the practical problems diplomats regularly face, such as negotiating an agreement, working with a hostile government, dealing with dual nationals imprisoned for political reasons, looking after local staff, engaging with civil society, responding to humanitarian crises, and what to do if a war breaks out on your doorstep. This is an invaluable training resource for anyone working at the coal face of international relations and a guide to how to navigate, operate, behave, negotiate, and survive diplomatic life. Such diplomatic skills will be of wider relevance in many walks of life – international, commercial, bureaucratic, even family.

"A thoughtful and entertaining journey into the world of diplomacy. A must-read for anyone interested in how it really works or aspiring to work as a diplomat."

- Baroness Cathy Ashton, former High Representative of the EU

"A vital guide. Diplomacy is sometimes glamorous, often painstakingly slow, but Nick Westcott reminds us that it is the vital hinge that keeps doors and windows open between countries. And that’s never been more important than now as a generation of politicians try to slam doors shut."

- Lord Mark Malloch-Brown, former UN Deputy Secretary-General

''Nick Westcott deftly exhibits the mechanics of diplomacy. His eye is acute and original, and, valuably, he can draw on the experience of both professional diplomat and seasoned academic: a must read for anyone who wants to understand the world today.’'

- Zeinab Badawi, Journalist, filmmaker, writer and President of SOAS

Nicholas Westcott is Professor of Practice in Diplomacy at SOAS University of London and a Visiting Fellow of the Oxford Martin School, University of Oxford. He worked previously as a British diplomat for the Foreign Office and the European Union.