Glossary · Citizen Diplomacy

Citizen Diplomacy

International relationship-building through ordinary citizens and civil society rather than exclusively professional diplomats.

Term type · Actor-led practiceTypes of Diplomacy

Context

Civilian exchanges may complement government policy but do not carry formal negotiating authority.

Why it matters for foreign affairs

Social trust and cross-border understanding can outlast political cycles.

Where it appears in practice

The 1971 US table-tennis delegation visited the People’s Republic of China. Source