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Origin of Protocol: Human Cooperation
In the previous articles, we talked about protocol (Protocol in the XXI Century) from a scientific point of view and the existing literature around the discipline (Overview of the biography of Protocol). Today we would like to talk about another equally relevant perspective: the origin of protocol?
Thefirst answerthat will probablycometoourminds as professionalswill behuman socialisation. After all, it is a tool used in the celebration of symbols. But according to what we have researched from sociology or psychology, this would be an obvious yet completely wrong answer among other disciplines.
From the psychological perspective, authors such as Ruiz Ta (2009) review socialisatisocialisation according to authors such as Freud and Piaget. Her findings lead her to argue that it is defined as the acquisition of patterns of behaviour, attitudes and values that constitute the substrate on which the personality of the human being is built. Hence, socialisation would allow us to explain how the integration of the norms and standards of society occurs but not the process of creating them. Therefore, from this psychological perspective, the protocol does not come from the phenomenon of human socialisation
Let's look at the socialisation process from a sociological perspective. It is considered the process by which a person becomes a functional member of society, acquiring the culture that is his own. Socialisation develops a culture (Lucas Marín, 1986, p. 357). From this perspective, socialisation has an actual weight because it entails a process of formation and growth of an individual but does not explain the origin of the protocol.
Ruling out human socialisation led us to investigate the latest scientific literature on human cooperation, and it is precisely there where we consider having found the origin of the protocol.
Studies argue that altruism or cooperation's origin would be what we call parental altruism. In other words, it is the fact that occurs in animal and human species where cooperative behaviour is experienced with the nearest «family» to perpetuate the genetic makeup. This type of behaviour with the evolution of the species argues that it will be part of one or more human genes transmitted from one generation to another. It is curious to say that the origin of cooperation is a selfish attitude.
This will produce «reciprocal altruism» at one point or another. This implies a predisposition to altruism not only towards the nearest «family» but to other people outside this nucleus who will also be recognised as altruists (Silva & Gustavo, 2015, p. 87). However, this is a limited altruistic behaviour since it is subject to expected retribution in the future. Taken to the animal world, we can give the alert call of some types of birds when a predator approaches to warn the rest of the group.
It is precisely at this point that a first step is taken towards the emergence of protocol since we move to the moment in which the human being realises that collaborating in groups -first with one or two people, and then with bigger groups- increases their chances of survival in their environment. This fact, moreover, is a turning point for humanity, as it will be able to discriminate between selfish and selfless people. This situation is associated with an evolution in which the concepts of friendship, culture, moral aggression, etc., will emerge as elements that will reinforce, or not, cooperative behaviour. In addition, communication and other associated skills will also be developed.
With this scenario described, the necessary conditions are given for the birth of protocol. There will come a time when humans are in groups that need to equip themselves with a series of rules that guarantee harmony. Who eats the most nutritious food? Who will be the gatherers, and who will be the hunters? Who sleeps in the safest place? Who has the necessary merits to lead, and what are those parameters that fit it? This situation is the origin of the protocol in our point of view. Settlements will be created, dominant individuals will emerge, coalitions and hierarchies will be identified with symbols, gods will emerge that will respondand expandvery abstract elementary concepts...The dominant power will realise that events and protocol are powerful communication tool that helps them stay in control and create a «brand image».
In addition, this origin would explain why each social group has a different type of protocol depending on its culture. Each of these groups that had no contact, or very limited, with each other has developed its own rules of coexistence and mechanisms. Therefore, to deal with each other and maintain a peaceful coexistence, tools have emerged that have given rise to international and diplomatic protocol.
Protocol, hence, implies an escape from anarchy, chaos and loneliness in search of the security offered by a group under a set of pre-established rules. Written by Daniel DELMÁS, Professional of events and protocol
Overview of the Bibliography of the Protocol
Human society has undergone a significant evolution since the dawn of its birth. Human beings have studied and adapted to the world around them to survive and conquer high quotas in terms of quality of life. To better study their environment, a form of research called the scientific method was developed and has evolved throughout history. This is how knowledge is achieved today and is the only objective and universally valid way.
Unfortunately for people who devote their lives to the practice and investigation of protocol, there is very little developed scientific literature about it. And when it comes to languages, the research work in Spanish is scarce and almost non-existing in English. Since the beginning of time, those who have exercised protocol did not need to register or study it since their knowledge was based on customs and legislation. Thus, it was transmitted from person to person. Over time, people who worked as protocol professionals captured their experience, ultimately leading to a rich and developed professional or pragmatic literature. The problem with this approach is that each author, depending on the branch of knowledge from which they come -law, communication, etc.- and the sector in which they exercise the protocol -official, corporate, or social- sees the discipline differently. Therefore, they see and describe their part of the protocolary reality. In the absence of the application of a scientific method that gives an objectiveanduniversalapproach,itisaparticular and“biased”visionthat cannot betakenasanabsolute truth (Delmás Martín, 2021, p. 2865).
This last perspectiveonthereality oftheexisting protocol literature has alreadybeen describedperfectly by Álvarez Rodríguez (2008, p. 162) in a scientific paper. She concluded that a pragmatic character marks this literature and gets closer to the academic part. On the other hand, by analysing the trajectory of the bibliography, she concluded that, in Spanish, four different schools or approaches had been
generated in which professional literature on protocol could be unified: the diplomatic school, the historical process, the law school, the community approach.
The first of these is the diplomatic perspective. The author considered as its father was José Antonio de Urbina. He practised law for many years and was diplomatic. Therefore, it is not hard to imagine why he was the one who considered protocol as a tool for mutual understanding between nations or cultures.
Secondly,wehavethelegalschool,which,asitsnamesuggests,focusesthestudyoftheprotocol mainly on the laws: norms, customs, and legal rules that have been adopted over time. It’s meaningful when we think of it since professionals in this field base their work on these laws and norms that are the essence of protocol science. It made an impression on professionals very quickly at the time. It has led many professionals and scholars to consider that it is only protocoled from the office since it comes mainly from existing legislation. After studying the scientific literature, this point of view is partial and does not allow us to acquire a holistic view of the protocol. The most representative author of this legal trend is Francisco López-Nieto.
The third approach is the historical one. It focuses its study on the narration of the traditions, customs, and social uses that have been happening throughout history. It makes significant contributions as well as the previous ones. We consider Felio A. Vilarrubias as the most outstanding author of this current.
Finally, we have the communicative perspective. This has driven the protocol to a great extent among protocol professionals. Considering it as a communication tool for public and private organisations and a generator of reputation and brand image has kicked off its study in communication sciences to obtain the most significant possible benefit. It is one of the most popular today and has the most followers and scholars.
To summarise, regarding schools, two clarifications can be made by the author, which I refute from my study of the subject: the first is that, although the different schools have been happening over time, none of them has annulled the previous ones. All of them are considered valid and bring a vision to the discipline. Onan obvious and an obvious conclusion emerges: none of these fields of study of the protocol can fully provide solutions to the needs of the discipline at present on its own. However, together they give us more meaning. To understand the protocol in its fullness, we must see it from the diplomatic, historical, legal and communication perspective, and the sociology, anthropology and other disciplines (Bernad Monferrer, Rubio Calero, & Delmás Martín, 2021, p. 2758). The protocol is like a prism withmanyfaces, andonly bylooking at it from all ofthem will we fully understand it and develop the science of protocol.
Protocol in XXI century
If something accompanies humanity until the end of its days, it is protocol. It is a practical discipline by nature, and that is why there has never been a need to register it, but with the emergence of communication sciences, it has begun to be studied. The reason is simple: it is a powerful communication tool that helps connect public and private organisations with their audiences.
One of the problems facing the discipline, which we will discuss in a future article, is the lack of scientific research. 99% of the protocol manuals that we can find today in the market have a practical profile, which means that they are written from a professional perspective and not with a scientific approach. As a result, we can say that no one knows what the protocol is because the scientific method has not been applied to approach this concept.
The review ofthecurrent littlescientificliteraturein protocol leads us toaffirm that protocol is a science in the embryonic state (Álvarez Rodríguez, 2008; Pulido Polo, 2015; Ramos Fernández, 2013; Ramos Fernández, 2014; y Sáez González & Martínez Fierro, 2020) that, depending on what the professional and research community does, will be consolidated as a science or remain in a simple auxiliary tool.
So, as a science, what does protocol refer to? Our research is the science of the human order since it gives us a series of rules and guidelines to ensure peaceful and positive coexistence among human beings. In addition, this regulation takes an exceptional value in celebrating the symbols -the eventsdue to its communicative value. Let us think that, from the moment two human beings decided to live
together, they needed to generate a series of rules that allow them to live together. Who will sleep in the safest place? Who will eat the most nutritious foods? Who has the merits to lead the group? This coexistence will become more and more complex with the growth of the groups, which will make the rules of the protocol more like what we know today.
Maribel Gómez and I have come up with a definition of a protocol. The objective has been to reflect what the latest scientific literature on the subject gathers and our professional experience to bring discipline to the 21st century and build protocol’s science. This is our proposal which we hope will help to shed light on this subject that is taking its first steps and that supposes not only our profession but the passion for what we do:
“The protocol is a transversal scientific discipline that defines the social structures and norms generated by use, custom, tradition or legislation that society is endowed with to guarantee and facilitate the harmonious coexistence of all its members. As a communication tool that applies to all social areas, the protocol takes special relevance in the organisation of events, both public and private, where it provides techniques that make tangible the intangible.”
As we have already argued, there is no doubt regarding its scientific approach. It is a science in an embryonic state. This means that it is in its beginnings, as it happened with other social sciences such as psychology or sociology at the time.
We are talking about a transversal discipline because it involves civil society, public and private organisations, and institutions. The protocol is present in all layers on which the current society is built. It reflects society, and it changes and adapts along with it.
One of the objectives of the protocol is to give the order. Therefore, we can describe the state and social structures of the society it belongs to through this matter. For example, reading the Royal Decree 2099/1983 of precedence (art. 10 and 12) of the Kingdom of Spain, we can have a broad idea of how this country is structured.
It produces rules generated by either considering what society usually does (customs or traditions) or those caused by the current government's legislative channels. All this with a final aim: to guarantee and structure the coexistence of a particular social group.
It is a communication tool because it is used by institutions, private companies and civil society to communicate. And therefore, the rules produced by the protocol take on particular relevance in the organisation of events, public or private.
Theprotocolmakestheintangibletangiblebecauseitallowsustospeakwithoutwords.Itis animportant ally togenerateaninstitutional or corporateimagein organisations andsocial people. It usesits essential four principles elements: spaces, people, times,and symbols. For example, withinthe latter, we consider the flags of countries since they make it clear to us who is hosting an event without the need for words.
In conclusion, we would like to address all those interested in the subject of the protocol. We expect professionals to find this definition exciting and appropriate. To the students of the subject, we hope that it has helped them shed light on your future work, and we encourage you to research in the protocol. And to non-expert people, we hope that it will help you understand a little better what protocol is and what we professionals do in the field.
Why it is essential to recognise and implement the business protocol and diplomacy skills in your company or corporation.
One of the most important things to consider when you conduct a national or international business is mastering the art of protocol and cross-cultural communication as soft diplomacy skills.
Whether you have a small or big company, as the owner or an envoy of a company in the national or international business scene, you must be equipped with a thorough knowledge and comprehension of the protocol, cultural and social customs of the person or the company with whom you are negotiating.
The protocol has been accepted in different industries as it offers better structures to various people. It also plays a vital role in other public and private sectors at events and ceremonies. It has become more flexible and has adapted to the changes of current situations and needs.
The ways of communication and needs, expectations of people are changing in this globalised world. Therefore the knowledge about protocol and cross-cultural communication as soft diplomacy skills are a crucial and beneficial tool in a professional environment to maintain and improve relationships with clients and business partners.
Haarlem, the Netherlands January 18, 2017
By Adriana Flores, Protocol and Soft Diplomacy adviser
Evolution of Protocol
There are different meanings of the word protocol. Protocol is derived from the Greek word “protokollan”, which means the 'first glue'. This comes from the act of glueing a sheet of paper to the front of a document to preserve it when sealed, something that imparted additional authenticity to it It represents the recognised and generally accepted system of international courtesy. In the diplomatic sense, the term refers to ceremonies and different kinds of events that are part of relations between states and countries.1
Former EUAmbassadortothe Holy See and the Order of Malaandformer EU Permanent representative to the United Nations, ISPD Emeritus Professor and expert on diplomatic protocol and world affairs, Dr Luis Ritto, stated at the lecture of Introduction to Protocol and Diplomacy: “Practice developed by nations over time in the course of their contacts with one another define the essence of the protocol. Protocolcanbedefined asthecombinationofgoodmanners,commonsense,andtraditions,whichallow for effective communication between countries and their representatives. It is not static; it has evolved in time and is different from one part of the world. Despite these differences, substance protocol is based on the following attributes: respect, courtesy, precedence and professionalism. These attributes have allowed protocol to become a key tool of diplomacy”.2
About Protocol
Protocol became a tool for diplomacy, and precedence rules became the norm in protocol systems in the 18th Century. When relations developed between a growing number of states, countries established ministriesofforeignaffairs,managedbyprofessionaldiplomats,states settheirforeignrelationspolicies and priorities and established a body of professional diplomats to represent their interests in foreign countries.3 Protocol is not only common sense following rules of precedence; protocol is the art of communication at a national and international level, taking care of the image of a person, company,
1 Enciclopedia Wikipedia. Protocol.
2 Ritto, Luis. 2013. ISPD. Supportive text related to the lecture regarding the Introduction to Protocol and Diplomacy ECDP01
3 Ritto, Luis. 2013. ISPD. Introduction to Protocol and Diplomacy. Developments in Diplomacy and Protocol. ECDP101
institution and corporation. It is a tool that gives power and identity to a country, community, person, and companies, at national and international levels, using solid and different forms of communication transmitted through symbols such as flags, colours, anthems, words, letters, logos, uniforms, clothes, branch and messages.
This can change from country to country. History, economic situation, politics, culture, traditions, and religion are essential in protocol and etiquette rules. Each country hasits own rules to be used at national andinternationallevels,andthesehavetobeconsideredandrespected.Whenwetalkabout international symbols, we also refer to royal families, symbolising their country. However, they may change their professional duties at national and international levels. For instance, the symbols of the Spanish Monarchy are the crown and the sceptre of the National Heritage Royal Collections, dating from the reigns of Carlos II and Carlos III. They have been used in the proclamation ceremonies for the Spanish Monarchs and are the highest symbols representing the Spanish monarchy.4
Throughout the years, the protocol has been an essential tool. It has been present at all levels of different scenarios, giving more structure and discipline to events, ceremonies, meetings and state visits. It has been accepted widely among a larger group of people at a national and international level. There are many kinds of protocol: Official Protocol: state protocol, diplomatic protocol, and military protocol. Business Protocol: Protocol of multilateral organisations as the European Union, Council of EU, United Nations, UNESCO, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europa, Religious Protocol, and Social Protocol: etiquette, diplomacy, politics, and Sports protocol as the Olympics Games.
Protocol also plays a vital role in different sectors, such as national and international business corporations, culture, education, medical sectors, environment, Vatican City (The Holy See), protocol at the table and tourism industry. Traditional techniques, communication, public relations, creativity and knowledge about intercultural communication are essential tools to manage the art of protocol in different kinds of events and ceremonies. The art of protocol is important to apply at events a, and ceremonasmple, he elaboration of Letters of Credence and state visits. The role of the professional in protocol is to bring structure and order in different issues like invitations, hierarchy seating, positions of the flags, table protocol, and etiquettein any event where a diplomat is going tobepresent. For example, in a state visit, the protocol of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the guest country and the protocol of
4 Casa de Su Majestad El Rey. The Monarchy through History. Symbols of the Spanish Monarchy.
the embassy of the guest country are involved and the master of ceremony of the monarchy or protocol of the president. All these professionals take care of different issues of different areas for a State Visit as a) welcome at the airport, b) welcome ceremony consisting of a review of military honour guards, parades, theplayingofnationalanthemsbyamilitaryband, c)theexchangeofgiftsbetween theforeign head of state and the head of state from the nation hosting the state visit, d) cultural events celebrating links between the two nations, e) business meetings, f) receptions g) State dinner or banquet of a four or five-course meal, either white tie of black tie, military honour guards, speeches made on behalf of the head of state as well as the foreign head of state and h) closing ceremony.
Presentation of credentials
At the new post, the presentation of credentials is theAmbassador designates first significant activity. It is also a ceremonial high point of the assignment, the singular event where he is at centre stage. For example, in Europe, it may be the only occasion where he will travel, in his own right, in a limousine belonging to the head of state. National custom determines the procedures in each capital; the standard temple demands only that the credential papers be handed over. Commonwealth countries that retain the Queen as their head of state exchange ‘letters of introduction ‘, and high commissioners are technically accredited to the receiving government and not to their shared head of state. The sequence of events begins with the new ambassador-designate making his first official call at the foreign ministry on the chief of protocol. He is formally welcomed and briefed on the credential procedure. He usually receives a paper giving a step-by-step ceremonial sequence.5 The design of a program that encompasses a State Visit in Western Europe does not vary much from that of other countries. The protocol followed during the ceremony of handing over the Letters of Credence to an Ambassador in the United Kingdom is the following: Soon after arriving in London, a foreignAmbassador has an audience with The Queen.
This is a formal ceremony in which a newly-appointed foreign Ambassador of High Commission is presentedtoHerMajesty.TheAmbassadorispickedupfromtheEmbassyorresidencebyaStatelandau from the Royal Mews. They are escorted by the Marshal of the Diplomatic Corp, based at St. James’s Palace. The Ambassador’s suite follows in another State landau. During the 20-min audience, the Ambassador presents their Letters of Credence and Letters of Commission, and their suite is given to The Queen. TheAmbassador’s party then returns to the Embassy or residence by carriage. Today, there
5 Kishan S. Rana. 2005. The 21st Century Ambassador Plenipotentiary to Chief Executive. Oxford India Paperbacks
are 172 foreign missions. They are accredited to the Court of St James’s in London6. The ceremony of protocolforhandingcredentialsmayvaryfromcountrytocountry.InMexico,thepresentationofLetters of Credence can take place in the official Pinos residence or the National Palace. The structure of the act is similar. In any case, the Ambassador is not accompanied by anyone, apart from the person designated by the Ministry from the corresponding regional area. The dress code is a dark suit, national suit or military uniform without decorations. A member of Protocol escorts the Chief of Mission and their companion to the White Room, where they wait for the General Director General of Protocol. When all the new Ambassadors have arrived, this is informed by a Joints Chiefs of Staff member. The President waits at the entrance, and the Director presents the new Ambassador. The President shakes their hand and invites them to take a seat next to the national flag; the Ambassador greets the president usingtheright handandtheleft hand over thecredentials.The ceremonylastsapproximately10minutes and is witnessed by the Diplomatic Counsel of the Presidency and the general Director of Protocol. The accredited diplomat leaves in the car where they arrived and leaves the residence accompanied by a member of the Chancellor’s Office and a military aide-de-camp.7
The 21st Century Ambassador
In his book about the 21st Century Ambassador, regarding protocol and ceremonies, the former ambassador and member of the Indian Foreign Service, Kishn S. Rana, states that Protocol is defined as the ‘rules of diplomatic procedure’. It involves a set of customs.
Practices enforcing standards and the uniform treatment for envoys sent abroad by states,,, large and small, as personal representatives of their monarchs and presidents. The Vienna convention of 1815 laid down the principles of equality. Precedence among foreign ambassadors in any capital is determined exclusively by the date of the presentation of credentials. The protocol covers ceremonial at state functions, hierarchies among officials and others personalities and guidelines for proper conduct based on courtesy and good sense.8
6 The British Monarchy. Ambassador’s credentials.
7 López Caballero, Blanca. 2006. La Diplomacia y su Protocolo. Ceremonial para la presentación de Cartas Credenciales en México. Ediciones Protocolo.
8 Kishn S. Rana., 2005. The 21st Century Ambassador. Plenipotentiary to Chief Executive. Oxford India Paperbacks.
Other aspectsandperspectivesonProtocolcanbefoundinthe Dubai,UnitedArabEmiratesdepartment These civilisations practised many different standards associated with Protocol and Etiquette. The word (Marasim)istheArabic word for Protocol.It refers to standards and procedures to be followed in mutual relations and associations amongst countries during different official events. The diplomatic relations between Egypt and Babel, which started in 1450 B.C., included highlights on applying standards for Protocol and Etiquette related to diplomatic immunities and receptions and ceremonies. In Arabia, during and following the Umayyad Caliphate era, there were protocols for rulers and ministers. In the first Abbasid period, Al Jahiz wrote his famous book "Principles of Communication with Kings" (altaj fi akhlaq elmelouk), which included information on receiving, greeting, sitting, talking, and talking eat with kings. It also containedthe etiquettes ofmessengers and envoys and guidelinesfor the king's public reception during feasts. Protocol and Etiquette practices have recently adopted simplicity and practicality to improve diplomatic and social relationships, moving away from old, rigid and overstressed customs while maintaining basic rules and civility. In addition, these standards are no longer limited to diplomats as they have extended to ordinary people. Compared to other countries, Europe gave more importance to Protocol and Etiquette rules. It was more involved with developing standardstogovernthey’repractice whileimprovinganddevelopingthemfurther over time.TheVienna Conventions (1961-1963) represented a significant step towards enhancing diplomatic and Consular relations worldwide.9
Modernity of traditions
In this globalised world, the ways of thinking about protocol are changing the ways of communicating and are becoming more flexible and adapting to the needs of diplomats. Nowadays, it is possible to see how some personalities, such as the King of the Netherlands, want to change some protocol aspects. However, it’s impossible to do so in some situations, as we can read in the analysis of The Modernity traditions10 .
9 United Arab Emirates, Protocol-Dubai.
10 Flores Gonzalez Adriana P. 2013 Modernity of Traditions. King Willem-Alexander of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Essay Assignment. ISPD.
His Majesty King Willem-Alexander succeeded his mother, Princess Beatrix, former Queen, on April 30th, 2013, as King of the Netherlands. In an interview, the Dutch king His Majesty Willem Alexander IV of the Netherlands said: “It is essential that the King and the monarchy become good symbols for the next generation”. Protocol issues will be more lenient; the king will be flexible and neutral with titles. King Willem-Alexander calls himself Willem-Alexander and not Willem IV because he does not want to be a number. “People can speak to me as they wish, but of course, there are formal situations within protocol says the King,” Like the protocol of his grandmother Queen Juliana. People called her ‘mevrouw’ (‘Mrs’) instead of ‘majesty’. In Protocol, Willem-Alexander maintains certain flexibility during more minor official events. The King of the Netherlands identifies himself with his grandmother Juliana, who was less elegant, close to the public, and had little protocol. His joy and passion for sports characterise Willem-Alexander's personality “Kings are part of a tradition. Kings in the XXI century interconnect, represent and encourage,” as King Willem Alexander said in an interview at Dutch television (NOS and RTL) onApril 17th 2013, a few weeks before he was crowned.12
“Be yourself, stay on the right path and do not leave it for political or social reasons because that will harm you.
If you believe in your ideas and opinions, you will endure till the end” Adviser of the former Queen Beatrix van Oranje to the Prince Willem-Alexander.13
King Willem Alexander is an example of monarchies that aim to be flexible in Protocol rules. The monarch's role within the Netherlands' government is described in Article 42 of the Constitution: The government consists of the King and the ministers. Willem-Alexander will be a King of traditions serving the constitutional monarchy in the Netherlands. The Dutch society is egalitarian and modern, and people are tolerant, independent, self-reliant and entrepreneurial. The modernisation of traditions is essential for development. In March of 2004, the Netherlands’Queen Mother Juliana passed away. She was an extraordinary example of a royal personage with a streak of populism. She cast aside many
11 NANP Royal Images Robin Utrecht. 2012. Koningin Beatrix in Abu Dhabi.
12 NOS RTL. 2013 Willem Alexander en Maxima. Interview.
13 NOS RTL. 2013 Willem Alexander en Maxima. Interview.
Figure 1.1 State Visit of Queen Beatrix, Prince Willem-Alexander and Princess Máxima of the Netherlands to United Arabic Emirates (UAE) Sheikh Zayed bin
Sultan Al Nahayan mosque inAbu Dhabi. 11
formal sovereignty protocols and was comfortable riding a bike, buying bread in local markets, pouring her tea, and helping those in need. The Queen Mother was particularly loved for the selfless work when the dykes burst in 1953. Donning Wellingtons, she slogged through her flooded country. Her rule spanned thirty-two years.14 The Netherlands monarchy has the tradition of surrendering to the throne in opposition of other monarchies, handing over official duties to the younger generation. On 30 April 2013, Prince Willem Alexander became King of the Netherlands: at the age of 48, making him the youngest king in Europe.
“The only constant thing is that things are constantly changing.
You have to move with society; then you can be relevant ”
Prince of the Netherlands, Willem-Alexander15
The Modern Protocol
Protocol rulesarefundamentaltoconnect different culturesat nationalandinternational levelsand make it easier to understand each other. The Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates in the Netherlands, H.E. Mr Abdall Hamdam M. Ahmed A., explains the importance of protocol:
“Without a protocol, we would not be able to communicate with each other because of the cultural differences. Protocol plays a vital role at the international level, which helps diplomats to be together. Diplomats stay in their circle of diplomats without integrating into another culture. I cannot say what will happen in the future regarding protocol and diplomacy changes; we are just doing our daily work.16
The protocol is becoming more and more essential everywhere; the need to know more about intercultural communication is critical, both at a national and international level. Minister Counsellor, Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in the Netherlands, Mr Guillaume Kaavaruganda, said:
“Protocol is arriving everywhere not only for the state, the queen, ministers but for all business people. You have to know the culture of the people you are receiving; you have to know what to do and what
14 Morrison Terry and Wayne A. Conaway. 2006. Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands 2nd edition Bossiness.
15 NOS RTL. 2013 Willem Alexander en Maxima. Interview.
16 Flores Gonzalez, Adriana P. 2015. Diplomacy in the Modern Protocol. Interview
not to do because if you frustrate your guest, they will feel uncomfortable, and the event/gathering will not go in the right direction. The protocol is not as heavy as it used to be. The changes in the protocol in the next ten years will probably be the international language.Asian countries, India and some countries of LatinAmerica like Brazil, Mexico and a few countries inAfrica have become richer. China and India have more diplomatic ways of doing things, even protocol. China is taking over. Probably in the future, instead of speaking English, we will speak Chinese”.17
With regards to changes in protocol and diplomacy in the years to come, The Counsellor of Argentina and Ministry of ForeignAffairs in Paramaribo, Suriname, MrsAna Emilia Sarrabayrouse, said:
“Change is imminent, secure, it is something that happens constantly, and it is the only way of surviving in the protocol and diplomacy. I think activities in the diplomatic and protocol area will be more open. Diplomacy will be defending commercial and social rights interests”. 18
The Consul of the Embassy of Ecuador in Belarus, Union Sovietise, Mr Rodrigo Benitez Proaño, referred to differences regarding protocol and diplomacy:
“Protocol is used in any field of life as it is a set of policies and practices used inactivity by agreement rather than by law and do not always require diplomacy for the application of the protocol. The protocol is used in any field of life as it is a set of policies and practices used inactivity by agreement rather than by law and do not always require diplomacy to apply the protocol. The diplomatic protocol is a set of attitudesand at acontain point,thediplomaticliferequiresthe protocol, which is the onlytime that bind. The formal protocol has been modified, becomingless strict,the French and English styles have become more North American being more permissive respecting rules of protocol at the table. Previously, we used a diplomatic uniform diplomatic language. There were ways to dress and act which had to meet certain rules that were considered elegant, and greater importance was attached to protocol rather than to the substance of a meeting. This has been modified, and these have been relegated to a secondary position to spend more at the bottom of the meeting, and the authorities are givingway to that happening
17 Flores Gonzalez, Adriana P. 2015. Diplomacy in the Modern Protocol. Interview.
18 Flores Gonzalez, Adriana P. 2013. Diplomacy in the Modern Protocol Interview.
even in the way they dress. Within time protocol will be less important to give way to diplomacy that addresses the substantive issues no matter how we are dressed, while the objectives are achieved”. 19
Code of ethics for the international organisation of ceremonial and protocol for the profession of protocol
PREAMBLE
(Statement of causes)
Offici frutus sit ipsum officium
(so that the reward of the duty will be the duty itself)
The professional activity of Protocol is one of the most ancient activities of Humanity since rituals, habits, customs, social uses and rules of behaviour appeared at the beginning of the first organised society. Before enacting the first legal codes that would organise men’s lives and value the effect of infringing them, even before the concept of moral rule came out of the first religious beliefs, all social groups started to settle rules of organisation and excellent and practical behaviour.
In these first rules, we find what has been considered correct throughout History. Indeed, nowadays, rules of protocol answer the triple approach of customs and social uses (social practices), legal rules (legal norms) and ethical rules or right way of doing things, according to the common consensus of the social, moral doctrine.
The concept of the profession has an essential religious reminiscence if we look back to its origins: the ideaofamissionentrustedbyGodtosomebody,sohehadtofollowhiscalling(vocation)onthespecific tasks of his working circumstances, imbuing it with a solid moral character.
Professions should be understood as a particular way of being and acting, as a moral Ethos to whom, from the professional codes, it is possible to demand a specific behaviour that, at the same time, should become habits. In the long run, these habits would become the usual and significant attitude of a
19 Flores Gonzalez, Adriana P. 2015. Diplomacy in the Modern Protocol Interview in Spanish. Appendix 5.
profession. In this sense, the code of ethics shows the ethical way of carrying out a job in an ordinary or daily way.
The ethical way of carrying out a profession is determined by all the moral, objective rules of each professional community, regardless of the level of motivation they have reached, whether they are statutory legal rules of professional organisations; conventional practices added or not to the agreement, or just simple principles, commonly accepted. More strictly, the code of ethics comes down to several regulations, with a smaller level of motivation, and not sanctioned by the State.
Code of Ethics is all the rules that regulate the ethical behaviour of a group of professionals who, to become professionals and because they are professionals, must assume them and respect them.
It is, above all, their conscience and, in their case, the collegiate bodies provided of the right dispositive, the means to give answers to define and specify the ethical behaviour, according to the Code of Ethics of each profession.
Nevertheless, it is essential to mention that democratic societies do not admit old manners as honour tribunals nor organs with the capacity to sanction in this field were the own conscience and the social recognition of the ethical management of the professional have to guarantee the effectiveness of the code of ethics and the right professional way of acting or Lex Artis.
In this professional field, ethical principles become more important. Accepting the proposed general ethic follows a more concrete and limited goal: establishing professional rules and norms of behaviour to guarantee honest performance concerning those who demand the professional services and their community or professional corporation.
Deontology is essential, the theory of duty.
The concept of professional deontology refers to ethical principles assumed exclusively by a specific profession (traditionally with liberal character and with a university level). Such regulations, formulated as rules or as interprofessional laws, all brought together in Codes of Ethics, become the “duties” that each professional should consider when carrying out his profession.
Professional deontology has ended up developing its field that, without registering itself in the legal science field, should consider, above all, the ethical inspiration in which it is based and should be positively put into practice to gain practical results that are, in short, the main goal. The prestige and authority that usually goes with a liberal profession presume two conditions for the one interested in the service: a recognised competitive technique and absolute morality.
Professional deontology draws on customs and good traditional uses of a profession, tribunals’ jurisprudence, the morality of society, and its requirements.
Adopted by the General Assembly in Zaragoza, Spain, the 26th day of November 2006
Principles and Rules of Behaviour
1.Theprofessional ofProtocolassumesasfundamentalvaluesofhisactivitythePrinciplesoftheUnited Nations Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and all the pacts, protocols, agreements, codes of ethics and all the system of values that are used to define and regulate the international society.
2. The professional of protocol assumes as particular values the ones that are the basis of the constitutional code of the society in which he carries out his activity, always according to the principles of the United Nations and the international community.
3.Theprofessional ofProtocolunderstandsthat hisactivityshouldbeto contributetoabetterknowledge of men and cultures, to the development of modern society based on the respect for the culture and the particularities of all people, and all of this should always be considered according to with the principles previously explained.
4. In this sense, the professional should be sensitive to combining the requirements, uses customs, and different ways of doing many cultures, avoiding collisions because of their external signs.
5. The professional of Protocol understands his activity as a vigorous way of communication to gain quality and the maximum excellence in the organisation, development and carrying out of the activities of modern society.
6. The professional of Protocol assumes the principles of tolerance, respect, and coexistence in between cultures but always emphasises the reference to the Human Rights and the principles of the United Nations Charter.
7. The professional of Protocol will respect scrupulously the legal rules that may affect him in the carrying out of his activity; he will combine both the uses and the customs of the different communities with their demand or both interests in each case, and he will abide by the social norms of behaviour that are in force wherever it takes place; thus, he will consider the secular character of modern society in the civil field, but never forgetting the respect of all religious believes.
8. In case of conflict, the protocol professional should evaluate the importance of his acts according to the prevalence of the values that should be maintained, according to this code. Nevertheless, he will never try to impose his criteria but put them forward to convince and debate, always provided with the adequate means to this task.
9.Protocolisnotanexactsciencebutatoolofthesocietytomanageinabetterwaytheirpublicactivities whether in official, professional, corporative, business, institutional or private fields. As a result and always considering the inalienable principles of this code, the professional of the protocol will act with tact, delicacy, intelligence and sense of measurement when solving controversial circumstances.
10. He should not lose his control, even in case of conflict. The use of the words, the example, the patience, the tolerance, the comprehension and the respect to the discrepant will be his best means of conviction.
II. Lex Artis (Acting Principles)
11. The professional of Protocol will never use for his good the relations established from his professional activity and will never try to obtain any personal benefit out of any other circumstance related to work, contacts or connections
12. The professional of Protocol will always be loyal to the entities or organisations he works for or those who demand his services.
13. The professional of Protocol will always have an open, cooperative, non-dogmatic and communicative attitude, especially when the organisation of an event might requirecollegiate decisions, by general consent or conviction.
14. The professional of Protocol should be loyal to his colleagues, and he should reconcile with transactional formulas, with dialogue, agreement and diplomacy when the occasion or the controversy requires it.
15. The Protocol professional should always act with honesty, know how to keep the confidentiality required in his activity, and follow honourable methods to get his aims.
16. The Professional activity of the Protocol should always be based on respect to human dignity and thedignityofallcitizensregardlessofrace,nationality,sex,culture,religion,economiclevelorpersonal situation.
17. The professional of Protocol should understand that his activity is not the primary aim itself but science for human communication, social relations and the improvement of society.
18. The professional behaviour of Protocol should be adapted under every circumstance to gain confidence in those he is in contact with. Thus, he is submitted to the principle of professional secrecy. He will never be allowed to use the confidential information he might have access to for his benefit if reached such a moment.
19. He should respect his compromises, agreements and word. His activity should never be confusing, and if there would be any, he should rectify it fast and efficiently.
20. The professional activity of Protocol should be carried out openly and be always identifiable. Nevertheless, his role should be played with absolute discretion taking no prominence in any of the events he might participate in or collaborate.
21. TheprofessionalofProtocol shouldnot accept anyremuneration,favours, privileges,compensations or expenses for his work but the ones related to the consideration (salary or honoraries) previously agreed.
22. Any activity that would violate the content of this code should be given up immediately. In this sense, the professional must refuse to carry out any practice that might attempt these principles or the ones of the profession.
23. The Protocol professional should act with special responsibility and rigorously if the situation might mean discrimination for sex, race, belief or social and cultural background.
II. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS
24. Under any circumstance and in any place, the professional of Protocol should always behave with the moderation, balance and honesty of a gentleman or a lady. HE should always try to convince before imposing.
25. Under any controversial circumstance or clash with a colleague, he should always be open to negotiation, agreement, transaction and tolerance without losing the general perspective of the event organisation
26. The professional of Protocol, from the permanent respect to all cultures, will consider inviolable the limits of human dignity that come from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
27. Any decision or proposal taken or formulated should always be a knowledge study and should be based and appropriately documented
28. The Protocol professional should assume the duty of continuous training and up-to-date knowledge as a requirement for his activity. Likewise, he should be given on each occasion the required tools, documents and search that should be, at the same time, tools to reinforce and convince under controversial circumstances.
29. The professional of Protocol renounces to any prominence, and his presence should be felt but not noticed in every event he might organise, direct, advise or manage.
30. According to the rules and the system of values of the civilised society, ethical behaviour should be the best reward for the professional of Protocol who should assume it as the base of his everyday
conduct. Thus, he should not expect any other recognition, favour or gratitude than know that he makes things the way they have to be done.
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