Classroom 7

[Honora]

Diplomacy.

[Marco Diaz]

*After the new cadet's introduction an exact holographic replica of Captain Diaz appears*

"Greetings cadet, I have been created to help ease the workload of Mr. Diaz, I can relate his classes to you directly as if he were here himself"

(OFF: let me know if you want me to continue in character or we can move along ooc )

"Tell me, why did you decide you want to be a diplomat?"

[pfakkert]

Good morning, sir..
Here is my possible solution:
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I would like the first part of the negotiations will take place in orbit around the planet in one of our own starships.
I do not know anything about the situation on the planet (hostilities between the locals and the military) so if we are on the starship we are on neutral ground.
It's important that the military emissary sees the benefits of joining the federation, but also the terrible consequences of a civil war.
Any intimidating or threatening the military emissary will have no effect or benefit and only work against the federation. The violent past of this race and the fact that the military have exeeded their power  suggests that.
We could give more than one example of the terrible outcome of civil wars like the almost extermination of a culture.(earth,indians)
Or total extermination of a race like the Avians in the Xindi civil war.
Remind the military emissary that after almost all the civil-wars alot of trails and legal cases follow and military leaders will almost always be punished.
By putting the government back in place the military emissary can give a positive sign towards the civilian population on the planet.
The civilian emissary could allow a small part of the government to be military.
By doing this they will be ensured of better cooperation because the military will also have to deal with civilian problems and will also have to try to solve them.
Now we will talk about the positive things that come with joining the federation.
Tell them that the unifying goals of the Federation are universal liberty, equality, peaceful coexistence, trade, science, exploration, and mutual defense.
Don't forget to say that it's territory encompasses at least several dozen sectors in both the Alpha and Beta Quadrants, spread across nearly 8,000 light-years of space. And as of stardate 3219.8, the Federation was spread across more than 1,000 worlds.
It very important that we convince the military emissary about the importance of mutual defence and space exploration.
This will give him the possiblilty to expand the military and gain new technoglogy BUT this can only be accomplished when the government is back in place.
There is no place in the federation for civil war and supressing the civilians is not an option!
No Federation resources will ever be used in civil wars.
For example, the klingon civil war between the houses of Gowron and the Duras family.
As the official leader of the Empire, Gowron requested that the Federation send support in fighting the Duras family's forces under the terms of the Treaty of Alliance.
No support was given.
For the civilian emissary there is also a lot to gain , there are lots of trade possibilities, and ofcourse the possiblility to obtain replicator technology which will often solve alot of civil and military problems.(food riots etc.)
The second part of the negotiations will take place on the surface of the planet. This will give me as a federation represenentative the chance to look at the situation on-site.
I can have a look if the situation is as the civilian emissary says. Has the situation already gone to far or is there still time to stop a civil war before it begins.
I would ask the military emissary to make a positive gesture towards the federation and to reinstate the government.
If all outcome are positive I would return after a month to speak to each emisarry seperatly and see if mutual problems were indeed solved.
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Thank you, sir
Hope to hear any comments soon...

[Ali'aln Tulak]

Sir, is there anyone here?

OOC: I've not done Diplomacy before, I am unsure. It won't last long. Very short if we both are on often, I would say tommorow if things go at a pace. I don't like to keep people in the courses for longer than 2 days. Long enough for the Academy to do what its here for.
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Commentary: One thing to observe, Cadet. You say 'We' often. Changing some of them to 'I' makes the talk more personal, which can assist in some cases.

"You can maintain your distance, and send no further ships near our planet without express permission!"

Commentary: One decision in your last response was wise for a diplomat. Asking what might be done. In some cases, not all, this will put a clamp on a situation. A lesser learned ambassador, or an uninformed one, would not have a proper response. Though always keep in mind, if there ARE demands, consider them well before making promises.

OOC: Yes, it is possible for it to finish tonight. But I cannot cut it short to do so, if a bit is left over, a bit is left over. Don't worry, you'll be about in the field tommorow for sure http://www.expansionfleet.com/ikonboard/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':)'>
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"That is more like it!"

Hobson then returned to his normal posture.
"Very good Cadet. That was a most effective simulation. Please tell me your observations of my role as the alien ambassador. Did you find the aggressiveness a problem, or barrier?"

[mimas elfeneye]

well, diplomacy, as l see it, is trying to play the game in such a way, that no-one has to think of himself as 'the loser' of the game.
Precognition of emotions is a blessing in the game of diplomacy.
I myself, have not had the pleasure yet be in the position of a diplomat, but l've been a council for diplomatic missions on my homeplanet.
I'd hoped for a similar function here...

"That sounds acceptable. In the meantime, what assurances do we have?"

[mimas elfeneye]

Scenario 1, sir, I would start talks with both species, convincing them that the dispute they are having amongst each other, might be solved in a diplomatic way, if both of them would join the federation.  That is the only non millitary sollution l can find.  l also was thinking of sending a peace-force, or constructing a defensive millitary border to seperate them... but, l strongly recommend these options as the last measurement to take... it could result in a mlllitary conflict between the federation, and both species now joined against a common ennemy.

Scenario 2...

Maybe a bit strange, sir, but l live by the golden rule to pay no attention at non constructive remarks... This results mostly in either the pessimist to shut up, since l am not responding to his remarks, or the pessimist realises his childish attitude, and starts giving constructive comments,...

If not well funded, and if the sole purpose of non-constructive comment, is to delay, stall, or sabotage meetings... these comments deserve no more than what they deserve: no attention..

[Yaxara Grax]

"Ambassador, I understand your concerns, but the citizens of Calos are happy with them being in the Federation. And they have not done anything that makes them potential candidates for removal.
But, the Federation, as you might know, protects its members . So, what do you say about doubling the defence forces of Calos..and sending some of them to defend your planet?"

[Yaxara Grax]

"I would like to be an Ambassador, I would like to serve on SS Avalon. Thank you for giving me this course."

[Marco Diaz]

This is the Class for Diplomats and Counsellors.

2 seperate sections in one classroom.

[Marco Diaz]

I would like to welcome you to the Diplomacy training course
(Keep in mind I'm not an expert http://www.expansionfleet.com/ikonboard/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=';)'>  )

Here is an outline to help you get started

I will prepare a mission for you to solve once you have read this

The labels of the diplomat


Being a diplomat requires you to play many various roles in EF.  Each of those roles provides a unique angle that will improve the realism and the quality of your posts as you write.  Though these are by far not all the roles a diplomat could possibly play, these are the most common that are used.

Diplomat- A Diplomat is an individual whom merely seeks out peaceful solutions to conflicts.  Any person can be an ambassador.  Frequently, the role of diplomat falls on the shoulder of the military.  It is a common occurrence that a Captain of a starship forges out a neutral agreement with a new species.  

One of the most common types of diplomat  is that of the free-lancer.  A free lancing diplomat serves no government.  They mediate for their own personal conviction whether it is for nothing more than money, or as powerful as personal beliefs, convictions, or random chance.

Politician- One of the diplomatic roles that undoubtedly must be played is that of the politician.  A diplomat carries a hefty portion of diplomatic power.  Politicians are activists of a series of beliefs and obligates themselves to actively pursues their beliefs.  Further, a politician is frequently used as a liaison to the public and the media.  They will be asked to speak for the military whenever topics come up that the public must know about.

Mediator- The role of the mediator works very closely with that of a Diplomat.  The Mediator is a person whom serves an objective role between two or more parties.  Mediators lean towards events where hostility is not in the equation.  For example, a mediator will hammer out a trade agreement where a failed result does not mean war, but simply no trade will occur.

Ambassador- One of the most important roles in a diplomat is one that is commonly mistaken for the diplomatic role.   Being a diplomat does NOT necessarily mean you are an ambassador.  An ambassador is normally a citizen and representative of a government that is sent to a foreign land whether friend or foe to speak for the government.  The Ambassador will usually be given an embassy (a place to live and work) to manage and control in the foreign territory.    Their assignment is usually a long-term assignment, unlike a diplomat.  Further, the levels of ambassadorship go from a low level ambassador to high level.

A low-level ambassador usually is a mere aide to the main ambassador.  Frequently, he or she is sent to do the basic task of an ambassador, such as maintain the staff of the embassy, ensure documents are prepared on time, and serve as a witness to a negotiation.   The high-level ambassador is usually the one whom is the primary representative to speak.  He makes the decisions and is ultimately responsible for the work he accomplishes.

The most important privilege to the ambassador and is reserve solely to this role is diplomatic immunity.  In essence, being an ambassador means that you are exempt from all search and seizures or prosecution from the foreign government.  This includes all communications, activities, and actions.  Bear in mind that this privilege is not given to the freelancing diplomat, only an official government representative in a foreign territory.


Missions of the Diplomat


The missions given to a diplomat are as varied as the roles a diplomat may play.  As before, all the missions are not listed below, though these are the most common missions run.
         

 First Contact-  By far one of the most critical of all diplomatic skill is that of the first contact.  Normally, First Contacts are done by the military, particularly when their primary role is exploration.  However, when a known pre-warp culture, develops warp drive, they become eligible for diplomatic relations.  Then it falls on the role of the diplomat to meet and greet the newest members of the galactic realm.  Normally free-lancing is not involved in First Contact.  The First Contact meeting will generally take place on a military installation such as a starship.
During a First Contact, the diplomat will generally be escorted by the military and specific officer of the command of the ship.  Your goal is to establish peaceful relations with the civilization in hopes of letting them join your culture.
           
Cultural Expert and Advisors- A diplomat may be used as a cultural expert of a new species.  They would be the one to advise on how a major government should treat them.  For example, a Trill diplomat would be used when matters involving joining of a Trill come involved.
           
Treaty Builders- The primary task of a diplomat is that of treaty building.  That is in essence the ultimate job of the diplomat.  To build a treaty involves multiple parties.  Treaties may be for a neutral zone, scientific or military information exchange, alliances or trade agreements.  A treaty could even be as little as a basic agreement not to communicate at all.
           
Civilian Aide- Though mostly done by a certified ambassador, a diplomat may be involved in providing aide to a citizen of their own government.   This is mostly done when a civilian or even a military member is on foreign soil whether by chance or intentional.
           
Spy- Though no diplomat will officially take this label of spy for their government, the powers and privileges give them the ideal position to use espionage when dealing with a foe.  Major advantages to the role of a spy, involves the rule of diplomatic immunity.  They cannot be searched or listened in on.
           However, the time comes where a government may grow suspicious of a diplomat's activities.  Should the host government gather hard evidence that diplomat has been spying on the activities of the host and then reporting them in any form to their government, then the privilege of diplomatic immunity may be revoked and the diplomat may be tried for crimes against the host country.
         
 Mediation- the role of mediator is heavily used as well.  The diplomat may be called upon to sit down and physically work a conflict through from beginning to end.  They may frequently be called upon as a third party to resolve the differences of two or more warring parties.  It is common fact that a neutral party can often separate emotion from fact and sift through the stories to the truth.
         
 Public Relations- As a public relations liaison, you may be called on to provide a buffer between military and the media.  When highly controversial issues occur such as an arrest of a Starship captain or a multi-gov't issue such as attacks on a neutral zone; you as a diplomat will be given the truth as the public should see it to report to the public through the media.
         
 It is often a powerful tool the diplomats are entrusted with called the media.  The media can crumble leaders and make heroes out of tyrants.  And as a diplomat you must know how to report the events to the media with the result of leaving the best possible image to the public.  Usually a low-level ambassador will be the one involved in the mundane stories and events while top-level ambassadors get involved in public relations when majors stories unfold.


How to be a Diplomat


Irregardless of what species you represent and what motivations you as diplomat may have, it is vital to have certain characteristics to be successful.

Bluff- It is a vital skill to be able to bluff.  Bluffing is little more than telling a lie to another and getting away with it.  In other words, a diplomat may make an idle threat to another to convince someone to do their will.

Inquisitiveness- Always asking questions and always learning something new.

Persuasiveness-  The ability to convince another individual to do your will.  The different tools of persuasion  vary, from idle threats to secret rewards and monetary gain, from accessing a persons fears to empowering the sense of pride.

Open-minded- To be a diplomat means you must be open minded.  Open-mindedness means you are able to see the issue from all angles.  Emotions, biases, prior experiences, and historical data can discourage open-mindedness from happening.

Systematic- This means simply being thorough.  If you must research a topic, being systematic provides the tool to ensure you do not miss a detail.

Logical-  This means looking at the natural order of events.  Everything happens in the universe in a series of events.  Following this series of events back to it's origin can frequently resolve misunderstandings.

Cultural Expertese-  Though it is not the most vital characteristic for a diplomat to have, having prior knowledge of a culture is often very helpful to guiding them through a troubled time.  It is natural for a diplomat to know their own species thoroughly, such a Klingons knowing Klingon history.

Anticipatory(anticipation)-  The best tool of a chess master and a diplomat.  To know what your opponent is going to say and do before even your opponent does helps you as a diplomat to circumvent trouble spots in a negotiation.

Historical and Political Knowledge - A key part of being a successful diplomat is to understand the situation on the "other side of the fence." If you can understand the position the other side is on by understanding the circumstances surrounding it, you will be able to come
This last section will help assist you in fulfilling your role of a diplomat to the fullest.  Though the following guideline is not always the tool of choice, it offers the beginner diplomat a tool to use for their first assignments.

Diplomatic Guideline

Step 1.  The most important duty of the diplomat when he or she first arrives on the scene is to End Immediate Hostilities.  Negotiations cannot occur efficiently if you must run between phaser fire from one side to the other trying to negotiate.  The best way for a diplomat to achieve step one is to get both sides to agree to a temporary cease fire.

Step 2.  Whether step one is accomplished or not, you should begin immediately the next step in negotiations called Collecting the Versions of the Story.  Remember there is always three sides to a story; Party A, Party B and the truth.  That is what your job will be, to collect the truth.
           You must request the series of events that happened from all sides of the story.  You must further realize that each party will naturally bend the series of events to make them look like the victim.  If there is a car accident with two cars, both parties will try to make the accident sound like the other persons fault.  Once you collect the Versions of the story proceed to step 3.

Step 3. This is the most important part of the diplomatic steps.  It is called Sorting the Facts.  This is where you take both sides of the story, sort out fact from fiction, and then begin your own investigation.  You might have to visit the scene of the event.  You might have to request information from databases.  In either case, being tedious and steadfast is the only way to get through this step.  Once you have collected all the facts, you should move to the next step.

Step 4. The next step is a critical step you must be good at, Find a Happy Medium.  Once you have collected all the facts, you are ready to determine a happy medium that both parties will agree to.  It may be that the only solution is to build a neutral zone between two warring parties or it may mean you found the source of the war was a third party.  A Happy Medium in trade agreements may mean you get to arrange a price and quantity that every is happy with.  Generally you should involve at least one person of each party whom is involved.

Frequently the Happy Medium that is developed requires parts on multiple sides to lose something.  That is the essence of a compromise.  Compromising is when two or more parties give up something to acquire something else.  Whether it involves dropping interest rates by 1% or agreeing not to cross a particular area of space.

Step 5.  The last step is the easiest part and usually the most fulfilling part, Presenting the Case.  Once you have gotten the parties to agree on the happy medium, then you present the case to everyone.  You make an official report to your own government as well as to all parties involved.


In conclusion, Being a diplomat is much more involved than people believe.  It is more than just a civilian whom throws around power over people and threats over the military.  Being a diplomat means you will be constantly running from conflict to conflict, reporting the story as your government requests and assisting when citizens are in need.

[pfakkert]

Good Morning sir.
Peter F. is ready to start his diplomacy lessons.

[Marco Diaz]

Excellent work, and thorough too.  You are making great progress, you are therefore promoted to cadet 4th year please change avatars to suite.

I will have your next mission for you soon.