Stakeholder engagement as a term or practice has yet to gain wide currency within public diplomacy.
Institute is rewriting the rules of traditional diplomacy because the current system of state diplomacy is no longer fit for purpose and excludes those most affected by decision-making.
The Institute has ofered the model of public diplomacy to spur stakeholder engagement in policy development through non-governmental methods of conflict resolution.
The model unites diverse experts from relevant sectors (state and non-state actors).
Stakeholder engagement is central for public diplomats.
Connecting and integrating diverse perspectives through effective engagement is the foundation of inclusive and sustainable policies and plans.
Structured, well-planned and meaningful engagement creates opportunities for social transformation – it promotes understanding, creates a sense of ownership and facilitates the emergence of well-aligned partnerships and co-creation.
Effectively engaging those who are affected by a decision is a cornerstone of accountable governance that supports favorable development outcomes.
Working collaboratively and sharing a constructive approach, public diplomats identify problems, initiate discussions, prepare papers, develop practical solutions and oversee their implementation. Our work promotes open, accountable, and participatory decision-making and good governance by promoting and supporting the involvement of public diplomat practitioners as key stakeholders at all levels.
The model is currently in its development phase, which started in 2021. Its a live model and is updated as needed to reflect all current phases.
The Institute considers Stakeholder Engagement to be a central element of the model and an essential component of best practices.
The Institute understands the issues associated with poor stakeholder relations and the opportunities provided by constructive engagement.
In particular The Institute acknowledges:
• Stakeholder Engagement is a public diplomacy tool as it allows early and effective identification, assessment and management of risks.
• Stakeholder Engagement is key to obtaining and maintaining broad stakeholder support for the project as the views, concerns and interests of stakeholders are being heard, understood and taken into account in its design and execution.
The Stakeholder Engagement Strategy is the overarching framework for all public diplomacy-related activities in the Institute.