Unique Challenges of Multilateral Diplomacy

The aftermath of World War II has made multilateral diplomacy become a major talking point for many. The 21st Century has brought about a huge change in the world of international relations. Along with the beginning of the rise of Peace and Human Rights. Hence along with globalisation multilateralism has become a widespread and significant phenomenon (Ruggie, 1993). However multilateral diplomacy does not come without its shortcomings it in fact faces a number of its own unique challenges. This essay will examine the unique challenges that are presented by multilateral diplomacy. It will do so by first discussing the definition of multilateral diplomacy and its implementation in the United Nations, followed by an in-depth analysis of what can be seen as the major unique challenges: decision making, legitimacy, representation and bureaucracy; whilst systematically working through other factors affecting these challenges such as the comparison with bilateral diplomacy, the role played by America as a superpower and the significance of non state actors and non governmental organisations. Conclusions are then made summing up the importance of multilateral diplomacy and yet its inability to handle the matters of todays world due to its unique challenges.