When you think of diplomacy, perhaps the first thing that comes to mind are the public speeches or maybe the press releases filled with images of world leaders. But the real negotiations and talks happen behind closed doors. They’re intense and strategic, often removed from the public arena. The newspaper headlines are the outcomes of those discussions and leave out the bulk of the diplomatic process.

Within the negotiation rooms, diplomats engage in conversation, emphasizing patience, persuasion and power. Some may take the approach of threats including military intervention or sanctions, while others may emphasize peace and aid. More often than not, though, they’ll use a combination of the two methods, or smart power. Smart power is a blend of more coercive and soft displays of strength.

The implications and impacts of each word said within the negotiation room is undeniable. Deals involving trade, security, or peace have the potential to affect hundreds of millions of people. An understanding of what happens behind closed doors can help reveal the complexities of international relations. 

Under the headlines, we can see that diplomacy is about judgement, patience, and strategy. What we see in newspapers and the television is the result of diplomats quietly talking and shaping the future in ways we may never be able to see.