Naval Diplomacy—A Theoretical Approach

Bibliographic Data

ID12257429
AuthorsJ J Widen, Jerker Widén (corresponding author)
Year2011
Volume22
Issue4
Pages715-733
Publication date2011-12-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueDiplomacy and Statecraft (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0959-2296 • E-ISSN: 1557-301X
PublisherTaylor & Francis (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/09592296.2011.625830
OpenAlexW2014718526
LanguageEN
Citations received8

This article considers theoretical aspects of the non-belligerent and political use of naval forces, commonly described as naval diplomacy. It presents four arguments. Firstly, it criticises the often used term "gunboat diplomacy" for being too narrow, emotionally charged, and burdened by colonialism. Secondly, the theories on naval diplomacy are criticised for being better suited for doctrinal purposes than for analytical purposes. Thirdly, criticism is levelled against the term "naval presence," which is deemed insufficient as a focal point in a theory of naval diplomacy. Fourthly, elements of a workable theory of naval diplomacy are presented, including the political aim, naval means, diplomatic method, and geopolitical context. In conclusion, warships and navies are described as symbols of national sovereignty and power, and for having, not only a defence value, but also a symbolic, supportive, and coercive value

Belligerent · Context (archaeology · Criticism · Diplomacy · Foreign policy · Geopolitics · Political economy · Political science · Politics · Power (physics · Sociology · Sovereignty · Value (mathematics · Computer Science · History · International Maritime Law Issues · International Relations and Foreign Policy · Law · Maritime Security and History

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