Diplomacy

This chapter considers diplomatic measures, including diplomatic criticism (naming and shaming), dialogue and mediation, the cutting of diplomatic ties, and the denial of membership of an international body. The first part of the chapter focuses on diplomatic criticism, arguing that it can help to address the situation, contribute to morally valuable international norms, and even punish offenders. In doing so, it considers the objection that diplomatic criticism is too demanding and that states are not entitled to criticize others when they are being hypocritical. More broadly, the chapter establishes the moral importance of expressing condemnation and upholding morally valuable international norms. The chapter also generally defends the case for mediation, negotiation, and denial of membership, but rejects the utility of the cutting of diplomatic ties.