In the 21st century, diplomacy is no longer confined to formal conversations between governments. Increasingly, individuals outside of state structures—scientists, artists, athletes, corporate leaders, and even students—are participating in the conversations that shape our global future. This modern, inclusive approach is called open diplomacy, and it reflects a dramatic shift in how international cooperation and problem-solving happen in today’s world.
Open diplomacy refers to informal, nongovernmental interactions among individuals, networks, and institutions that seek to foster mutual understanding and collaborate on global challenges. Unlike traditional diplomacy, which is typically state-centric and conducted behind closed doors, open diplomacy unfolds in more transparent, accessible, and public spaces. It encompasses storytelling, dialogue, cultural exchange, and collaborative problem-solving that engages the public.
Open diplomacy is not confined to cultural exchange or soft power; it plays an increasingly strategic role in shaping how the world responds to complex challenges. It offers space for dialogue and collaboration that is often more flexible and imaginative than traditional diplomatic channels. By drawing in voices from across society, open diplomacy fosters the kinds of conversations that can surface new ideas, build trust, and help prevent conflict before it escalates.
In today’s interconnected world, governments alone cannot address transnational challenges. It helps translate public insight into actionable policy and brings together those who are often left out of formal processes. Whether addressing climate change, navigating the ethics of artificial intelligence, or managing global health risks, this form of diplomacy expands who gets to participate in shaping the future and how. Ultimately, open diplomacy strengthens the international system not by replacing traditional diplomacy, but by complementing it.
Notable figures like Woodrow Wilson and Walter Lippmann were among the earliest and most vocal advocates for a departure from traditional, secretive forms of diplomacy. Rooted in Enlightenment ideals and reinforced by the democratic principles of transparency, accountability, and civic engagement, this emerging vision of international relations reflected a deep suspicion of the opaque power politics that had characterized European diplomacy for centuries. The backroom deals and secret treaties that helped trigger World War I served as a powerful warning to many American intellectuals and policymakers about the dangers of closed-door diplomacy.
This critique helped give rise to what was known at the time as “new diplomacy” an approach that sought to replace secrecy and balance-of-power calculations with openness, ethical conduct, and the moral authority of public opinion. It laid the foundation for a more inclusive and principled approach to diplomacy—one that viewed public engagement not as a liability but as a source of legitimacy and innovation.
Over the 20th century, this ethos evolved in response to global trends, including the rise of mass media, the growth of international civil society, and the proliferation of transnational challenges requiring multistakeholder solutions. What was once the idealistic promise of new diplomacy gradually matured into what we now recognize as open diplomacy: a model that acknowledges the strategic value of transparency and public participation in addition to traditional forms of diplomacy.
Open diplomacy is becoming increasingly vital in a world where problems cross borders faster than governments can react. Whether it's climate change, artificial intelligence, public health, or even misinformation on social media, today’s global challenges are deeply interconnected, and they can’t be solved by governments working alone behind closed doors.
The 2026 FIFA Club World Cup is one example of open diplomacy in action. With 48 teams competing across three countries, it will bring together fans, players, media, and communities from around the world. Events like this are not just entertainment; they're powerful opportunities for cultural diplomacy. When people from different countries meet, cheer together, and share their cultures, it builds mutual understanding and breaks down stereotypes. Those positive interactions can lay the groundwork for stronger relationships between nations in the long term.
But open diplomacy doesn’t just happen at sports events. It’s also alive in places like the 2025 Geneva Science Diplomacy Week, where global leaders in science, policy, and international relations came together to discuss how emerging technologies will reshape global cooperation. By including both technical experts and diplomats, these conversations ensure that future technologies are guided by shared values, not just competitive interests.
We also see open diplomacy in climate negotiations, where cities, Indigenous leaders, youth activists, and business coalitions increasingly play a role. For example, at COP28, major global cities like New York, Nairobi, and Jakarta presented climate plans alongside national governments. Indigenous representatives spoke about the importance of traditional knowledge in protecting the environment.
Digital platforms have also become powerful spaces for open diplomacy. Social media campaigns like #BlackLivesMatter, #MeToo, and Fridays for Future (the youth climate movement started by Greta Thunberg) have gone global, creating pressure for governments to act while also connecting citizens across borders around shared goals. These movements influence not only public opinion but also international agendas.
U.S. Competitiveness: Open diplomacy enhances U.S. competitiveness by showcasing the country’s diverse cultural, artistic, and technological strengths on the global stage. American music, film, fashion, and digital innovation often serve as gateways for deeper cultural understanding and engagement. For example, Hollywood movies and streaming platforms bring American stories and values into millions of homes worldwide, fostering familiarity and positive perceptions. Educational exchange programs like the Fulbright Scholarship and international STEM initiatives build long-term connections with future leaders and innovators from around the world. Additionally, American entrepreneurship—especially in tech hubs like Silicon Valley—demonstrates the country’s commitment to innovation and problem-solving, attracting global talent and investment. This blend of culture, education, and technology not only projects soft power but also opens avenues for trade, joint ventures, and scientific collaboration, reinforcing U.S. influence in a competitive global economy.
Geopolitical Resilience: In an era marked by misinformation campaigns, fake news, and geopolitical rivalries, open diplomacy serves as a critical tool for building resilience and trust. Unlike traditional state-to-state diplomacy, open diplomacy involves trusted non-state actors such as scientists, artists, journalists, and community leaders who often communicate more directly and authentically with diverse audiences. For example, during global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, open scientific dialogue helped share timely data and best practices, countering disinformation and promoting coordinated responses. Artistic collaborations and cultural exchanges create emotional connections that transcend political tensions, reminding people of shared humanity. This credibility and openness help build stronger alliances and communities that are better equipped to resist divisive propaganda and work collaboratively in times of crisis.
Alliances and Democracies: Open diplomacy, rooted in the principles of democracy, emphasizes transparency, accountability, and the inclusion of diverse perspectives in international affairs. Rather than limiting global decision-making to state actors and political elites, it invites participation from civil society organizations, youth leaders, marginalized communities, and other non-state voices. This inclusive approach helps ensure that international agreements reflect a broader spectrum of public interests and social concerns. By promoting open dialogue and mutual understanding, open diplomacy reinforces the democratic values that underpin global alliances and institutions. Trust among nations—essential for the stability and effectiveness of alliances like NATO and multilateral bodies such as the United Nations—is strengthened when members share commitments to human rights, the rule of law, and participatory governance. Ultimately, open diplomacy enhances the legitimacy of international cooperation and helps align global policies with the values and priorities of the wider public.
Corporations: For multinational companies, open diplomacy offers an opportunity to become influential players on the global stage. Businesses can build a strong international reputation by engaging in transparent, socially responsible initiatives that align with their values.
Diplomats: For diplomats, open diplomacy presents both opportunities and challenges. It allows them to extend their influence beyond government circles by engaging with the public through storytelling, digital platforms, and cultural outreach. However, it also demands greater transparency and adaptability.
Purveyors of Arts and Culture: Artists, musicians, filmmakers, and cultural institutions are central to the open diplomacy movement. They create spaces for non-political dialogue and emotional connection, often reaching audiences that formal diplomacy cannot. Whether through a museum exhibition, an international film festival, or a collaborative musical project, cultural diplomacy transcends language and ideology.
Sports Communities: Sports serve as a powerful tool for diplomacy. Athletes become symbols of their nations, promoting values like teamwork, perseverance, and unity. Hosting international tournaments also opens the door for cultural exchange and diplomatic engagement, while local sports initiatives foster peacebuilding and mutual understanding at the grassroots level.
Scientists and Technologists: In the world of science and technology, open diplomacy is essential for tackling global challenges. Issues like climate change, AI ethics, and pandemic preparedness require transparent, cross-border collaboration. Scientists often act as informal diplomats, building trust through data sharing and international cooperation.
Open diplomacy is not a replacement for traditional diplomacy, but it is a vital addition. Whether through sports, science, culture, or technology, individuals around the globe are already participating in international relations, sometimes without even realizing it.
In a time of political polarization and rising global tensions, open diplomacy offers a hopeful path forward. It invites us to see one another not just as citizens of different countries, but as fellow human beings with shared hopes, challenges, and dreams. It reminds us that the most powerful form of diplomacy is often not what happens in a conference room, but what happens when people come together to listen, understand, and connect.
