Moving forward, the selection of diplomats must be guided by wisdom, intention, and discernment. Diplomacy is not ceremonial, nor should it be treated as a reward for political loyalty. It is a serious national responsibility, one that demands competence, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the people of the state.
A diplomat is an official representative of a nation, appointed to manage international relations, protect national interests abroad, and engage with foreign governments through dialogue, negotiation, and mutual respect. In this role, a diplomat does not speak for themselves, a political party, or a personal ideology. They speak for the state and its citizens.
Professionalism, restraint, ethics, and decorum are not optional qualities in diplomacy; they are fundamental requirements. A diplomat must always exercise impartiality and must never publicly declare or promote allegiance to any political party. While personal political beliefs are a democratic right, the nature of diplomatic service requires that such beliefs remain private. Once appointed, a diplomat’s duty to the state must supersede personal preference.
There is growing concern over the practice of granting diplomatic appointments as party favors or political rewards. Such practices weaken institutions, erode public trust, and compromise a nation’s credibility on the international stage. Effective diplomacy requires individuals who understand protocol, confidentiality, cultural sensitivity, and the far-reaching consequences of words and actions.
Conduct, particularly in public spaces and on social media, is another critical consideration. Diplomats are held to a higher standard because their statements, whether online or offline, reflect directly on the nation they represent. There is no place in diplomacy for inflammatory language, defamation, unsubstantiated accusations, personal attacks, or unethical behavior. Accountability and maturity must define the office.
Those entrusted with diplomatic posts must understand that they are funded by the people and accountable to the people. Their role is not to advance partisan agendas but to serve national interests with integrity and balance. A diplomat must be able to engage respectfully with differing views, maintain neutrality under pressure, and uphold the dignity of the office even when challenged.
In reflecting on what true diplomacy looks like, Kingsley Lane stands as a clear example of the standard that must be upheld. He was a diplomat in every sense of the word, representing his country with pride, dignity, and unwavering professionalism. Kingsley Lane executed his duties as a diplomat with purpose and restraint, fully representing St. Vincent and the Grenadines on the international stage, and nothing else. His service offers a model from which future appointments should learn and emulate.
Diplomatic service is not for everyone. It requires emotional intelligence, sound judgment, discretion, and a deep understanding of the responsibility that comes with representing a nation beyond its borders. To appoint someone unprepared, unqualified, or overtly partisan is to do a disservice not only to the office but to the people themselves.
If the nation is serious about governance, credibility, and effective representation abroad, it must commit to appointing diplomats who truly understand diplomacy, individuals who are competent, principled, and capable of representing the people with honor.
Diplomacy must be earned. It must be respected. And above all, it must be protected.
Written by Nailah John
President/Founder of Rise Hairouna/LOVNSVG
The following is an opinion piece submitted by an editorial contributor. The views expressed are entirely those of the author.
