The diplomatic protocol is a system of etiquette rules of interstate relations, which are based on the principle of international courtesy. Violation of these rules can damage the authority and prestige of the state.
The diplomatic protocol officially began its history in the 19th century - the Vienna Congress of 1814-1815 established a system of rules, conventions and traditions of international communication, which were to be observed by heads of state, chairmen of governments, diplomatic officials, and official representatives. Diplomatic relations are based on the respect of the state for foreign guests and, accordingly, for the whole people of which they are representatives. Respect and mutual understanding allows us to regulate practically all spheres of external political, economic and international relations.
The main principles of the diplomatic protocol system:
1. Diplomatic etiquette. It is the main component of the protocol and regulates the relations of officials, political leaders and public figures of different states. Diplomatic etiquette supplements and improves the rules of civic etiquette. Communication in business, public and government circles takes place according to strict rules that govern:
- correspondence and contacting each other , making visits, holding meetings and business receptions.
- the uniform of the civil servant and the manner of behavior.
2. State sovereignty - different states have different privileges and enjoy different rights.
3. Reciprocity - or, in other words, the rule of obligatory response. A letter, courtesy call, invitation or business card must be officially answered. And the answer should contain an introductory (at the beginning of the letter) and a final (at the end of the letter) compliment. Lack of a compliment is regarded as disrespect or even hostility, which will lead to international conflict.
4. The diplomatic protocol strictly follows the principle of seniority, which depends on the rank of state representative and on the date of his accreditation, and not on the importance of the country.
Diplomatic etiquette and protocol necessarily include:
- Ceremonies and official receptions. The occasions for official receptions are different: anniversary dates, arrival of the head of state or government, foreign delegation, national holidays. Receptions can be evening or afternoon, without seating guests and with seating - it all depends on the occasion. The most solemn evening receptions are considered.
- Conversations and meetings that take place between the heads of public services with diplomatic missions. The day of conversation, time, place and topics are agreed in advance.
- Formal dinners, lunches, breakfasts or receptions held by heads of state, heads of government, ambassadors, ministers, consuls, military attaches, ship commanders. Diplomatic meetings are held regardless of significant events, in the order of daily work. This type of interaction significantly expands relations, strengthens friendship between countries, influences local government, allows you to exchange the necessary information and receive new information.
Diplomatic protocol and etiquette are necessary not only for the first persons of the state and diplomats, but also for any public servant who deals with issues of international economic cooperation, and businessmen if their activities are related to cooperation with foreign partners. Possession of the rules of business etiquette significantly increases the prestige of not only an individual representative of the state, but the whole country as a whole.