Lecture Notes on Disillusionment, Diplomacy, and Idealism

Introduction

• Story focuses on war, disillusionment, death, and rediscovering idealism.
• Discusses lessons relevant to the 21st century.

Beliefs about Narratives

• Challenges straightforward narratives (A leads to B leads to C).
• Emphasizes randomness in life and events.

Personal Journey to Diplomacy

• Background:
  • Colorblind, dream of becoming a fighter pilot failed.
  • Early passion for international relations and the Cold War.
• Decision to Become a Diplomat:
  • Announced desire to be a diplomat to parents.
  • Joined British Foreign Service in 1989; high competition (5,000 applicants, 20 accepted).

Experiences as a Diplomat

• Career Highlights:
  • Worked on Middle East peace process and met historical figures (e.g., Yasser Arafat).
  • Served in Afghanistan post-Taliban.
  • Key role in UN Security Council, particularly around Iraq's weapons of mass destruction.
• Life in New York:
  • Lived in a penthouse; experienced the highs and lows of diplomatic life.
  • Engaged in significant diplomatic negotiations, including post-9/11 responses.

Crisis and Shift

• Disillusionment:
  • Felt exhausted and disillusioned towards the end of NYC tour.
  • Took a sabbatical to reflect and assess career.
• Turning Point in Kosovo:
  • Witnessed riots in March 2004; understood disenfranchisement of the Kosovo people.
  • Inspired to advise Kosovars on their diplomacy, leading to the creation of Independent Diplomat.

Establishing Independent Diplomat

• Mission:
  • Provide diplomatic advisory services to underrepresented groups.
• Advisory Roles:
  • Worked with Kosovo, Northern Cypriots, Burmese opposition, and others.
• Innovative Approach to Diplomacy:
  • Introduced new strategies and solutions for complex diplomatic issues.
  • Collaboration with non-experts to inject fresh perspectives into problems.

Lessons Learned

• Personal Insight:
  • "Falling off a cliff" can lead to personal growth and new opportunities.
• Political Insight:
  • World fragmentation entails declining state power and rising influence of non-state actors.
  • Collective responsibility for global issues lies with individuals and organizations, not just governments.
• Call to Action:
  • Emphasizes the need for active participation in global affairs and diplomacy.
  • Advocates for practical outputs rather than traditional political processes.

Conclusion

• The evolution of diplomacy reflects broader changes in global society.
• Encourages embracing randomness and personal agency in addressing global challenges.