So the Wikileaks revelations have proved to be something of a damp squib rather than an explosive firework.
But was the website right to blow the whistle in the first place – or should diplomacy be able to be carried on, without such interference?
Well that kind of debate has raged for as long as we’ve had newspapers – and some print journalists will air views on the rights and wrongs of their web-based cousins spilling the beans on some indiscreet remarks.
What’s arguably of greater concern is the fact that some diplomats have been less than diplomatic in the descriptions they’ve attached to world leaders and royalty alike….and then put their colourful thoughts in black and white.
Surely, by definition, diplomats have to bring tact and skill to work with them – whether their comments are made face-to-face or by the cables, some of which have become infamous by their publication.
Caricature-like opinions – such as those exposed – look like the opposite of diplomacy.
Quite simply, the fallout the diplomats may face in their next meetings with dignitaries could have been avoided by following a key Broadcasting Business principle:
Only ever say in a text or email what you’re happy to see on the front page of a newspaper – because that’s where it may end up!
We’ll consider running “Communication Skills for Diplomats” courses in the New Year.
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