A New Concept in Diplomacy Unveiled at the UN Forum Celebrating 80 Years

Diplomagacy: A New Perspective on U.S. Foreign Policy

In honor of the United Nations' 80th Anniversary, the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy (ICD) held a forum at the UN, focusing on the theme, "80 Years of the United Nations Advancing Cultural Diplomacy for Peace, Development, and Human Rights." Among the distinguished speakers was Professor Zekeh Gbotokuma from Morgan State University, who introduced a novel concept called 'Diplomagacy'. This term offers a critical framework for understanding the implications of President Trump's diplomatic maneuvers during his presidency, particularly his 'withdrawal diplomacy' approach.

Professor Gbotokuma's presentation took place at the Permanent Mission of the Principality of Monaco to the UN, where he outlined how Trump's policies have altered the U.S.'s role on the global stage. The term 'Diplomagacy' encapsulates the intertwining of diplomacy and the MAGA (Make America Great Again) ideology, suggesting that Trump's foreign policy has deviated significantly from the long-standing principles that have guided American diplomacy.

Over the past 80 years, the United States has been a pivotal player in shaping the framework of international relations, championing democracy and human rights as cornerstones of its foreign policy. Historically, the U.S. has been recognized as a leader among nations, particularly as a founding member of the United Nations and a Permanent Member of the UN Security Council. However, Trump's administration has marked a departure from this legacy, adopting an adversarial stance towards the UN and traditional allies, which Gbotokuma argues reflects a broader decline in U.S. leadership on the world stage.

In his paper titled, "DIPLOMAGACY: Reflections on Trump's Imperial Design and Isolationism Through Tariffs and Withdrawal from International Organizations," Gbotokuma contends that Trump's actions have reinforced a narrative of isolationism and unilateralism. This is evident in the withdrawal of the U.S. from various international agreements and organizations—66 in total, with 31 connections to UN bodies alone. He describes this approach as undermining the collective efforts of nations to address global challenges.

The professor elaborated on Trump's 'withdrawal diplomacy' as a fundamental aspect of 'Diplomagacy,' linking it to the broader MAGA agenda. Gbotokuma argues that Trump's foreign policy is characterized by an aggressive trade war, where tariffs have been imposed on numerous countries, including U.S. allies like Canada. Moreover, Trump's initiatives, such as the establishment of a so-called "Board of Peace," reflect an attempt to reshape the world order to fit his vision, often in opposition to long-established international norms.

Gbotokuma also emphasized the implications of Trump's decision to dismantle the Iran Nuclear Deal, which he referred to as "Operation Epic Fury." This initiative is seen as part of Trump's broader imperialistic approach and reliance on Presidential Maximalism, a framework that centralizes power and asserts U.S. dominance in foreign affairs. The resulting policies have fostered an atmosphere of increased tension and instability in international relations.

Ultimately, Gbotokuma presents 'Diplomagacy' as a phenomenon that signals not the return to greatness, but rather the potential demise of an American-led world order. He warns that it represents an isolationist and divisive approach that threatens global security and undermines progress towards cooperation—especially regarding the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which hinge on collaborative international partnerships.

Furthermore, while Trump may perceive his policies as an affirmation of his electoral mandate, public opinion largely disapproves of his administration's handling of foreign affairs. Gbotokuma calls for a restoration of U.S. democracy through inclusive elections, suggesting that the key to countering the disruptive influence of 'Diplomagacy' lies in reinforcing democratic institutions and processes.

As Gbotokuma continues his advocacy for a more cooperative international stance, his insights remind us of the crucial role cultural diplomacy plays in fostering understanding, peace, and unity among nations.