We have tried it for a while now. Again and again, we have to work from home and use digital tools to collaborate and host online events using Zoom, Teams, or Skype. The world does not stop turning just because of a pandemic.
Digital Diplomacy had an article in Medium on April 20 about how world leaders have moved traditional diplomacy online on various platforms like Twitter, Zoom, and Facebook.
The same is true for other parts of the diplomatic corps. Diplomats worldwide have met online with their contacts and stayed in touch using the aforementioned platforms.
Technology has proven to be an asset in keeping the diplomatic wheels turning during this pandemic and shifting lockdowns worldwide. However, many diplomats also have experienced a steep decline in activity on representations around the world, including here in Copenhagen. Several Embassies have stopped pretty much all external activities, from campaigns through meetings with civil servants.
With a vaccine coming shortly Embassies, and us who work with them can look forward to more face-to-face time. Until then, I encourage diplomats to continue expanding their use of Zoom and other digital platforms. It is the future for diplomacy, which can use them to stay in touch with each other without traveling too far.
The increased use of digital platforms have the added benefit that it can save the diplomatic missions money and help protect the environment due to lower carbon emissions from travels.