Full Text

Language determines, to a large extent, who we are and how we relate to others. Clay Shirky has claimed that the way in which we communicate, and thus interact with others, is currently undergoing the most dramatic revolution in history. The nature of communication networks is shifting from a one-way method of conveying policy to a dialogue among governments, non-state actors, and any individual who is eloquent enough to portray compelling messages. Joseph Nye believes that power is the ability to achieve desired outcomes, and for this definition, language that inspires intended action is power. Diplomatic practitioners convey meaning through careful selection of words, but in engaging more entities than ever before, they must ensure that their words effectively support their national interests. Language and the subtlety of effective communication have never been more important for international actors. The domestic politics of language carry profound international implications. The Forum considers how the rapid disintegration of powerful governments throughout the Middle East has demonstrated the political potency of people who do not simply receive government messages, but possess the ability to speak back and engage each other with relative impunity. Historical dialogue over the poli- tics of language in India, Belgium, and the United Kingdom has shaped national character and the priorities that diplomats place on their interactions with other nations. The importance of language and usage of words to carry out diplomacy is also emphasized in other articles beyond the Forum. Dahal and Ghimire explain how a model of ethnic federation may not be feasible in Nepal, where language plays a critical role in the fragmentation of the population. Senator Hagel, commenting on tough U.S. foreign policy challenges, hints at the importance of responsible dialogue in the context of fragile U.S.-Pakistan relations. This issue of the Journal covers a range of topics with lasting importance to these tense times in international relations. Zielonka suggests that, in Europe, the Westphalia system itself may hang in the balance as new, complex political and economic relationships emerge from the euro zone crisis. Ciorciari and Weiss focus on the South China Sea as a key to the future of international influence in Asia, and one which requires the leadership of a skilled mediator. Wadhwa describes the difficult decisions the United States must face as it seeks to balance political opinions on immigration with the need to attract and retain innovative, energetic people who can contribute to the country’s global competitiveness. We hope that this issue of the Journal entertains and informs our readership. We have undertaken a number of initiatives this year to supplement the Journal’s print issue. Readers can now enjoy reading up to five articles from previous issues online. Further, through our blog and various online sections on the revamped website, we hope to provide a constant platform for timely analyses and discussion on issues that shape our world.