Diplomatic Handbook aims to provide a concise but comprehensive source of relevant information for those who are embarking on an international and, particularly, a diplomatic career. It is also useful for civil servants who are required to attend multilateral conferences on a wide range of subjects and for those interested in the mechanisms of international relations. Coverage includes: - the establishment and conduct of diplomatic relations - the organisation and functions of a Ministry of Foreign Affairs and of a diplomatic mission - protocol and procedure - diplomatic privileges and immunities - consular officers and consular posts - the European Union, NATO, the United Nations and other international organisations - key elements of international law - conference practice and procedure - information, misinformation, disinformation, and media presentation skills - glossary of diplomatic, consular and economic terms This new edition has been up-dated to take account of the major political, economic, social and technological changes which have taken place since the latest edition was published in 1998.