Conceptualizing Parliamentary Diplomacy

Abstract

Aim. The article reveals the conceptual foundations of parliamentary diplomacy.Methods. In order to fulfill the purpose, the author drew upon theoretical methodology namely modelling, chronological, comparative, complementary and parallel approaches.Results. The phases of development of parliamentary diplomacy are outlined. The theoretical model (institutional design) of parliamentary diplomacy is designed. The features of the international activities of representative authorities are outlined.Conclusions. First, the geopolitical processes of the second half of the 20th century have caused parliamentary diplomacy to transform into double legitimate diplomacy, a new form of soft power tool and independent holistic concept. Second, parliamentary diplomacy has acquired a complex body (model), including various dimensions, levels of institutionalization, tools, forms and formats of cooperation. Third, although parliamentary diplomacy has a number of advantages over cabinet diplomacy (greater flexibility, informality and less bias), the other side of its institutional features (reduced powers, limited resources and ideological colouring) may have a negative impact on applied outcomes.

Keywords

• parliamentary diplomacy
• inter-parliamentary institutions
• soft power
• public diplomacy
• conference diplomacy
• paradiplomacy