The Intelligence from The Economist

On the right track: a trend in diplomacy

Jan 23, 2020
Join diplomatic editor Daniel Franklin, Africa correspondent John McDermott, and Britain correspondent Tom Rowley as they dive into intriguing global issues. They discuss the rise of Track 2 diplomacy as a valuable tool when official talks stall. McDermott reveals the political drama unfolding in Lesotho, involving a prime minister's resignation and family controversies. Rowley sheds light on the contentious use of lie detector tests, exploring their reliability and ethical implications, making for a thought-provoking conversation on modern conflict resolution.
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INSIGHT

Track 2 Diplomacy: An Overview

  • Track 2 diplomacy uses private intermediaries to resolve conflicts when official channels fail.
  • It allows deniability and exploration of sensitive ideas without political backlash.
ANECDOTE

Track 2 Success Stories

  • The Oslo Accords, Northern Ireland's IRA peace process, and Basque ETA resolution involved Track 2 efforts.
  • These demonstrate its utility in sensitive situations like negotiating with terrorists.
INSIGHT

Beyond Peacemaking

  • Track 2 diplomacy isn't limited to peacemaking but can address gaps in official processes.
  • Climate change dialogues between the US and India exemplify its broader application.
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