Amidst the turbulent events around the world today, food is one of the only remaining lifelines for diplomacy. Beyond the humanitarian catastrophes presented by food and water shortages in war-torn countries, leveraging the power of food diplomacy and cultural understanding is an understated beginning to resolving conflict. By leveraging the soft power a country’s culinary traditions have, states can transform their reputations and relations, as well as communicate their values and messages in a form outside of government interaction. Some of diplomacy’s most important conversations happen over dinner, so it is essential to learn how to set the table and precedent for “tasteful” discussion.
In discussing this topic, it is important to define soft power, as well as the way it is exercised in diplomacy. During a time where hard power is so intensely employed as a way to resolve or take a stance on conflict, soft power becomes even more important to balance out transnational relations. Although it is necessary to confront issues head-on at times, it is equally important to prevent conflict through exchange and understanding. Theoretically, if countries are able to better understand another country’s culture, or at the very least, approach it with an open mind, then it could alleviate the need to resolve issues through force and hard power.
Cultural diplomacy is the primary way countries can lay down the groundwork to prevent escalating conflicts and causing harm to innocent civilians. This type of diplomacy can be performed through multiple different avenues, including art, sports, literature, music. However, I argue that food diplomacy is the most effective, yet most underrated way to approach cultural diplomacy. In regards to art, sports, literature, and music, there are different niches in these categories even within their own cultures and countries. However, food is a common denominator for all people, and doesn’t have to stem from a particular interest in the topic. The universality of the dining table as a meeting point for cultural exchange can't be understated.
A recent demonstration of this can be seen in an initiative from this past summer, orchestrated through the US embassy in Armenia, focused on food sustainability and culinary entrepreneurship. The purpose of this culinary diplomacy program was twofold, with one portion dedicated to the cultural exchange of food traditions, and the other concentrated in Armenia’s rural economic development. This is a more tangible way that policy goals are achieved through food diplomacy.
However, even comparatively minute actions, such as cultural appreciation, can create positive outcomes for diplomacy. One notable example is a visit to China by President Bill Clinton. President Clinton prepared for his trip by practicing eating with chopsticks for a month prior to his arrival, showing his dedication to making a positive impression and improving relations with the country. This action was well received by the Chinese hosts and the public, and was viewed as a respectful and friendly gesture, fostering positive sentiment and demonstrating an appreciation for Chinese culture.
These two anecdotes show the impact food diplomacy can have across the board. If President Clinton successfully using chopsticks could become a headliner and notable diplomatic action, diplomats should leverage the power of food in multiple avenues to advance policy initiatives, or at the very least, use it to prevent confrontational conflict.
As tensions continue to build around the world, it is vital for countries to go beyond treating the symptoms of strained diplomatic relationships and begin dealing with issues at the root. Correctly leveraging soft power can significantly improve diplomatic outcomes, and in regards to cultural diplomacy, food is the most efficient tool in creating cultural understanding and positive relations.
Personally, I've always believed that sharing a meal can open doors to deeper conversations and relationships. Food, in its universal language, can break down barriers and foster mutual respect. The article's emphasis on food diplomacy as a form of soft power in international relations is a refreshing perspective in a world often dominated by more forceful tactics. It reminds us that diplomacy can be as simple and profound as understanding and respecting another culture's culinary traditions, creating connections that go beyond mere politics.
I honestly love your post and how you did such an in-depth analysis on the power of food. Honestly, it is something that can bring people together, make someone's day better, and even be someone's career (I mean for food content creators). I never thought food could also have such a relationship with politics, but love your insights for it. Thank you for sharing this!
You make an excellent point about the power of food diplomacy. Prior to discussing this topic with you during our op-ed workshop, I had no idea this form of political communication even existed. I agree that the term "soft power" is appropriate in this context– instead of shoving someone's beliefs (be it religious, political, cultural, etc.) down someone else's throat, food diplomacy is a subtle way of bridging a gap. After reading this, I'm curious to know what other examples of successful food diplomacy exist in dissolving tension or conflicts between politicians. Excellent job, Bebe!
Gastrodiplomacy is a great way to foster connection between places. I think the mention of soft power is very important, because this is a way to make people better understand each other instead of focusing on their differences. I think if cross cultural interactions were focused on humanity and attempted to understand one another, things would be a lot better for the future. Most people don't understand food's importance in society because it is not only a resource but its a way of communication.