International Institutions As Diplomacy Tools For Kenya
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the role that international institutions play
in promoting diplomatic relations. Specifically, the study was set to determine the
extent to which international organisations are tools of diplomacy, to investigate the
ways that international organisations have influenced diplomatic engagements in the
21st century and to establish the role of UNCTAD in Kenya’s diplomatic engagements.
The study was guided by neorealist theory. The study employed quantitative and
qualitative research designs. This study used both primary and secondary data
collection methods. Primary data was collected through interviewing Kenya’s sitting
and retired foreign affairs minister, ambassadors, and people that participated in the
formulation of Kenya’s foreign policies in the past and in the present. Secondary data
was collected from relevant books, foreign policy documents and resolutions and
journal articles. Framework analysis and thematic network evaluation was applied for
analysis. From the study it was established that: the 21st century diplomatic
engagements are an engine that any developing country should employ to drive its
national interests; Kenya is maximizing on its diplomatic ties and engagements to
achieve its foreign policy goals; through economic diplomacy Kenya has positioned
itself in the regional market for trade thus becoming a regional trade hub; the
involvement of other actors in Kenya’s pursuance of diplomacy is an effective strategy
adopted by the government in promoting its economic diplomacy and the ministries of
Foreign Affairs the African Union, private sector and other actors through strong 21st
century diplomatic engagements are enhancing strong economic, political and social
relations in Africa and the world at large. The study recommends that governments
through the African union need to streamline trade procedures and come up with
standard procedures effective 21st century diplomatic engagement’s procedures,
economic strategies and goals that enhance Africa’s economic position in the world and
more specifically EAC trade liberalizations will enhance Kenya’s economical position.
Publisher
University of Nairobi
Subject
DiplomacyRights
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United StatesUsage Rights
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/us/Collections
The following license files are associated with this item: