Maritime Diplomacy in the 21st Century ─ Drivers and Challenges

This book aims to redefine maritime diplomacy for the modern era.

‘Gunboat diplomacy‘ is now often referred to as coercive naval diplomacy, and is perhaps best described as a sub-set of the much larger concept of maritime diplomacy, which incorporates not just coercive maritime diplomacy, but also co-operative maritime diplomatic measures such as port visits, exercises and humanitarian assistance.

Maritime diplomacy is an increasingly common activity. As states such as China and India develop modern, effective navies, they are exercising their newfound power in ostentatious displays of naval force. Furthermore, they are also exercising their naval forces further afield, engaging in more meaningful bilateral diplomatic visits, coercing neighbours through the use of aggressive paramilitary agencies and even attempting to extend the influence of their countries through humanitarian assistance missions. The increasing use of maritime diplomacy by developing states is a clear indicator of those countries’ growing confidence in their naval capabilities. Coercive maritime diplomacy is essentially a demonstration of the intent and/or capabilities of an actor in a dispute, disagreement or political dialogue. The intensity of the diplomacy, the assets used and the threats or statements issued at the time are all excellent signs of the importance of an issue to that actor and the lengths to which they will go to protect these interests. Furthermore, coercive maritime diplomacy acts as a valve through which any tension can be released without resort to conflict. The activity allows actors to further their aims in a dispute or a diplomatic campaign while also avoiding, and possibly signalling a lack of desire to enter into, broader warfare.

This book will be of much interest to students of seapower, naval history, strategic studies, diplomacy and international relations.