Back-channel diplomacy
Back-channel diplomacy uses unofficial, secret communication channels to conduct sensitive negotiations away from public and media scrutiny.
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Back-channel negotiations can offer temporary protection from parties seeking to undermine an agreement and can shield sensitive discussions from public scrutiny.
VerifiedBack-channel negotiations can allow negotiators to assess whether another party can negotiate in good faith before exploring substantive commitments, while keeping the talks away from audience scrutiny.
VerifiedProtection from public scrutiny is temporary: critics may oppose an agreement more strongly if they regard the process as unfair, and leaders' reputations may suffer when supporters and colleagues learn of secret negotiations.
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