In the current international relations arena, countries traditionally assign professional diplomats to protect their interests on the global stage. However, in the 21st century, the actors involved in international affairs have expanded beyond just career diplomats. Increasingly, celebrities, business leaders, public figures, and other influential individuals are playing an indispensable role in diplomacy and foreign policy.
Countries are now going beyond the traditional use of professional diplomats and are employing a wider array of representatives to engage in international affairs. This new form of diplomacy, often referred to as “public diplomacy” or “celebrity diplomacy,” leverages the reach and influence of prominent non-state actors to advance national interests.
Regarding professional diplomats nominating the right diplomats to represent a country in international affairs remains crucial. These diplomats must be skilled, knowledgeable, and able to navigate the complexities of the current global system. They are tasked with protecting the interests of their country and its citizens on the world stage.
In this regard, Ethiopia has recently nominated 24 ambassadors who serve in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA). These individuals have served in the MoFA for over a decade, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to their roles.
As a country located in the strategically important Horn of Africa region, Ethiopia requires skilled, career diplomats who can effectively defend the country’s interests. The country faces a number of pressing issues, including the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), access to seaports, and other regional challenges.
To address these critical matters, Ethiopia has carefully selected its diplomatic corps. Of the 24 newly appointed ambassadors, 10 have been designated as Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassadors, while the remaining 14 have been appointed with the title of Ambassador. This nomination process is in accordance with Article 71, sub-article 3 of the Ethiopian Constitution.
The selection of these experienced and capable diplomats underscores Ethiopia’s commitment to strengthening its international representation and advancing its national interests on the global stage. As the country navigates complex regional and global dynamics, having a skilled diplomatic corps will be crucial in defending Ethiopia’s position and finding solutions to the pressing issues it faces.
In an exclusive interview with The Ethiopian Herald, Dareskedar Taye (PhD), a senior foreign relations expert at the Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) emphasized that the newly appointed diplomats are career diplomats with extensive experience, having worked their way up from the lower ranks of the MoFA. “This will help them to master the basic skills that diplomacy requires,” he explained.
He noted that the appointees have actively participated in various international forums in which the MoFA participates, gaining valuable experiences about global politics. “In previous appointments, diplomats and ambassadors who lacked knowledge in diplomacy and had not served in politics were often appointed,” Dareskedar said. “Formerly, diplomat ship or ambassadorship was considered a vacation and a break from politics.”
He believes the current diplomats will be more effective, as “diplomacy, by its very nature, wants to understand the complex situation of the world and to do things that benefit the country in this situation.” He added, “Those appointed now have served in MoFA for fifteen to thirty years, so they understand the current global landscape.”
Dareskedar acknowledged that ambassadors appointed through a political process in the past have also made significant contributions. However, he stressed that the preference now is for career diplomats, as they are better equipped to navigate the complex dynamics of their assigned regions.
He further explained that the role of an ambassador is inherently political, requiring a deep understanding of national and political issues. “So I think the ambassadors appointed now will understand this,” he stated.
Furthermore, he emphasized the role of the Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) in providing continuous training and coordination to empower MoFA employees. The IFA, he said, identifies training needs, coordinates the delivery of programs, and presents recommendations for promotions based on the assessments of the trainees.
This shift towards experienced career diplomats, according to Dareskedar, is expected to enhance the effectiveness of the country’s diplomatic efforts and better serve the national interests.
In an exclusive interview Ambassador Lelisa Berhanu, one of the newly appointed diplomats, on his part shared his insights on the process of becoming an ambassador in Ethiopia.
Ambassador Lelisa told to The Ethiopian Herald that the nomination of an individual as an ambassador can occur in two ways. The first is through a meritocratic process within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), where diplomats climb the professional ladder from the bottom to the ambassador level. This pathway is based on their performance, professional expertise, and dedication to serving the country and its government.
The second mode of appointment is a political nomination, a practice observed in various countries. In this case, the government may appoint ministers or other officials as ambassadors, irrespective of their previous affiliation with MoFA.
Regarding the constitutional framework, Ambassador Lelisa explained that the president of Ethiopia has the authority to make two types of nominations: for high-ranking military officers in the national defense forces, and for ambassadors or diplomats. He emphasized that these kinds of nominations are not based on party affiliation, race, or other considerations, but rather aimed at serving all Ethiopians equally.
As an ambassador, the primary responsibilities include protecting the country’s interests in social, political, and economic affairs in the host country, attracting investment, building the country’s image, and collaborating with the diaspora community to safeguard the nation’s interests.
Reflecting on the past decade, Ambassador Lelisa noted a shift in the trend of diplomatic appointments. Previously, the nomination of ambassadors often favored individuals nearing retirement age or those with limited experience within MoFA. However, the recent reforms have led to a significant change, with nearly 98 to 100 percent of ambassadors being selected from those who have served within MoFA and possess the necessary skills and expertise.
The current nominations, according to Ambassador Lelisa, are based on a focus on skills and expertise, providing hope for younger diplomats aspiring to reach the ambassador’s rank. He emphasized that the selected ambassadors possess the necessary capabilities to navigate the complexities of the modern world, working in line with the country’s foreign policy objectives.
The ambassador also highlighted the comprehensive training and professional development opportunities available for diplomats. New recruits undergo a two-year program at the Institute of Foreign Affairs before joining MoFA, and experienced diplomats receive periodic training every two or three years to adapt to the evaolving global landscape.
Importantly, Ambassador Lelisa stressed that the role of diplomacy extends beyond traditional diplomats, encompassing the contributions of celebrities, athletes, and the wider public. He emphasized that all Ethiopians should consider themselves ambassadors, actively promoting the country’s interests on the global stage.
BY EYUEL KIFLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 14 AUGUST 2024
