The Saud Al-Nasser Al-Sabah Diplomatic Institute, under Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, held a symposium on Tuesday titled "The Art of Diplomacy in Conflict Resolution," featuring Dr. Athar Sultan Khan, Dean of the Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations. The event was attended by numerous foreign mission heads and diplomats.

Key Highlights from the Symposium:

1. Global Challenges & Diplomatic Failures

• Dr. Khan highlighted that over 122.6 million people are currently forcibly displaced due to wars and conflicts, reflecting:

  • A deteriorating international system

  • The declining effectiveness of traditional diplomacy

• He warned that the world is experiencing a "state of widespread war," with conflict-driven displacement undermining political solutions.

2. Criticism of Modern Diplomatic Practices

• Dr. Khan criticized the shift from dialogue to ultimatums in global diplomacy, leading to:

  • Widening political divides

  • Rare international cooperation on peace and security (despite UN Charter principles)

• He emphasized that "war agendas" push people to flee rather than resolve conflicts.

3. Call for "True Dialogue Diplomacy"

• Advocated for "Real Diplomacy through Dialogue" – a model developed by:

  • The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

  • The Geneva School of Diplomacy

• Stressed that inclusive consultations (including non-state actors) are the only way to:

  • Address complex conflicts

  • Achieve sustainable peace solutions

About the Organizer:

The Saud Al-Nasser Al-Sabah Diplomatic Institute is Kuwait’s leading institution for:

• Diplomatic training

• International relations research

• Conflict resolution strategies