Diplomats are specialists who represent their country and its interests abroad to ensure that diplomacy endures. They are responsible for overseeing international relations regarding peace deals, trade and economics, culture, human rights, and the environment. Diplomats have to be calm in stressful or difficult circumstances and be able to think on their feet, adjusting quickly to changing situations. They must also be able to work with people from other cultures with different values, political beliefs, and religions. Diplomats must learn one or more foreign languages during their careers.
The roles and responsibilities of diplomats are immensely varied. Most countries’ diplomatic responsibilities are divided into three main categories: political, trade, and consular services. Some of the roles of a diplomat include:
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Political Officer: Reports on local developments and advocates for support for the country’s interests. Keeps the ambassador up-to-date on political events and changes.
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Economic Officer: Works with foreign governments to secure internet freedom, fund scientific advances, protect the environment, or negotiate new trade laws.
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Management Officer: Responsible for all embassy, consulate, or diplomatic mission operations from real estate to people to budget.
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Consular Officer: Provides services to citizens of their country who are traveling or living abroad, such as issuing visas, passports, and emergency assistance.
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Ambassador: The President’s highest-ranking representative of a specific nation or international organization. Oversees and coordinates the activities of the Foreign Service Officers, as well as representatives of other U.S. agencies operating within the foreign country.
Diplomats have the opportunity to influence international and diplomatic development. They travel to foreign countries and explore the culture, and to work in a foreign country, a diplomat has to know the local language, culture, and customs, which makes it an ideal profession for those interested in exploring the world. Diplomats can travel all over without a visa requirement.
