Securing diplomacy in the war on terrorism: a critical perspective

This chapter explores the entanglements of Western diplomatic efforts with the war on terrorism, in particular within ISAF's counter-insurgency operations in Afghanistan and argues that this relation increases diplomats' insecurity. I take a critical approach to "security" and question the "securitisation" of diplomacy, that is, the discourse that projects Western diplomats under an "unprecedented" level of threat that requires in turn, extraordinary security measures to protect diplomatic personnel and property. The securitisation of diplomacy in the theatres of the war on terrorism has led to further distancing between diplomats and the locals by building fortresses outside cities (the "bunkerisation" of embassies), and by outsourcing diplomatic security to private security companies. By engaging with the diplomatic Turn literature, this chapter sheds light on the short-term and problem-solving nature of this securitisation and seeks instead to situate diplomacy as a powerful structuring force in the international system, at the heart of Western diplomats' vulnerability.

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