Routledge The Future of Diplomacy After COVID-19: Multilateralism and the Global Pandemic

This book considers the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on international diplomacy, and the challenges and opportunities it presents for the future of multilateralism. Global cooperation and solidarity are central to responding to and mitigating the health and socio-economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, yet, to many, this was slow to mobilize and lacking in political leadership. This book takes a practical look at the lessons learned from the period spanning the World Health Organization’s first declaration of a public health emergency of international concern in January 2020, to the commemoration of the 75th Anniversary of the United Nations in October 2020. This timespan covers a critical period in which to consider key areas of diplomacy, covering a range of tools of global cooperation: multilateral diplomacy, the rule of law, sustainable development, economics and financing, digital governance, and peace and security. Each chapter in this book introduces readers to the current situation in their respective areas, followed by a constructive consideration of lessons learned from the pandemic’s impact on that field, and key recommendations for the future. The practical focus and future orientation is particularly important as the book injects pragmatism and guidance that will facilitate ‘building back better’ in COVID response plans, while creating space for continued focus on global commitments around sustainable development and the future of the UN. Written by a team of authors who have worked directly in International Public Policy and the establishment of global agendas at the United Nations, this book will be essential reading for professionals and policymakers involved in diplomatic roles, as well as students and scholars interested in the future of international relations, global governance and sustainable development. Review "COVID-19 has brought home, besides human vulnerability, another painful story of global mismanagement. The authors argue persuasively that if we want to "build back better" and achieve peace, development and respect for human rights, there is no other option but to work together in a multilateral setting and make use of the tools available to us in the United Nations and its Charter. An important and enlightening read for all those who are interested in a better world." ― H.E. Mr. Mohamed ElBaradei, the 2005 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and former Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (1997-2009)"After all the 75th anniversary calls for a recommitment to multilateralism in an era of pandemic and climate crisis, what is needed is exactly what these authors from different regions provide: translation into specific detail that is actionable, drawn from real experience, and yet as idealistic as the UN Charter itself." ― Mr. Ian Martin, Former Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations in Libya, Nepal and East Timor and former Secretary General of Amnesty International (1986-1992)"A book that brings the wealth of experience by diplomatic and UN practitioners to the effects of COVID-19 to the reader interested in global governance. The authors discuss the consequences of the pandemic in several critical fields and offer practical recommendations for a coordinated and effective response by international actors. An important read for all who believe in our common humanity and want to do better for future generations." ― Ms. Angela Kane, Former UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs and Former Under-Secretary-General for Management of the United Nations"An interesting new addition to the field of international public policy discourse, 'The Future of Diplomacy after COVID-19' underscores the huge importance of multilateral engagement and global cooperation in shaping the outcome of pandemics and other disasters. In particular, the authors, drawing from their diverse experiences as diplomats and practitioners, make