Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, and diplomacy is catching up. While technology can process vast amounts of data and handle routine tasks, it’s human insight that understands the cultural context crucial to any negotiation. Dr. Donald Kilburg, a former U.S. diplomat, puts it simply: “AI can streamline diplomacy, but only humans bring the empathy and intuition that make negotiations succeed.”
In his book, AI Use Cases for Diplomats, Dr. Kilburg outlines how AI can support everything from drafting quick responses to summarising complex documents. Yet, he is clear that over-reliance on algorithms—often rooted in Western traditions—can risk oversimplifying delicate diplomatic exchanges. Instead, AI should serve as a tool that complements, rather than replaces, human judgment.
If you’ve ever wrestled with balancing innovation and tradition, you’ll appreciate his call for robust training programmes. These initiatives aim to marry technical skills with ethical considerations, ensuring that diplomats know when to embrace technology and when to trust their gut. From refining negotiation strategies to countering cyber threats, AI offers many useful applications, provided it’s used wisely.
Dr. Kilburg leaves us with a thought-provoking question: will tomorrow’s diplomats represent nations—or simply follow algorithms? His balanced approach reminds us that while AI can powerfully support our efforts, preserving the human touch in diplomacy remains essential.
