The Importance of Diplomacy in the Modern World

My passion for diplomacy is a response to today's geopolitical uncertainty and conflict. Solutions to global challenges require collective action dependent on a nuanced understanding of the interests of our partners and adversaries. In fact, I see diplomacy as the only sustainable path to peace.

In a world where complexity, contrasting perspectives, and misunderstandings come in abundance, it is pivotal to come into any room with a strong moral character, knowledge of the history and of our counterparts, and a firm comprehension of the line between realism and idealism.

The objective of good diplomatic policy is having aspirations, ideals, and a vision of what the end goal should be, but also recognizing the world for how and what it is, and analyzing ways to move towards progress. The end goal for any successful nation should be a more peaceful, more inclusive, and a more tolerant society. That will become a triumph in all sectors: economically, politically, and socially. The trajectory of this planet has been of progress, but we must recognize that progress never moves in a straight line.

As I grow older and aspire to understand the world better - both nationally and internationally - I have come to the realization that curiosity, dialogue, and understanding are critical to reconciling contrasting worldviews. Diplomacy has had consequential outcomes throughout history, both beneficial and detrimental for generations that followed, and for that essential reason I believe it is crucial to have leaders that work hard in getting it right. Let’s not be afraid to ask questions, to surround ourselves with people smarter than us, to listen and understand the other side, and to stay true to oneself and who we represent. I never said it would be easy, but the alternative is far worse.

We share the world with almost 8 billion people. All of us with different histories, perspectives, needs, and understanding of the world. Our aim should be a planet where we push towards solutions for the global challenges we all face together.

The Single Most Pressing Issue -- and Solution -- Facing our World Today

When you think of the single most pressing issue that we face as a society, what comes to mind? Perhaps inequality? Perhaps poverty? Terrorism? Or maybe even Climate Change?

For many years, the one and biggest global issue that truly concerned me, for myself, for the people I love, and for future generations was Climate Change. How on Earth (no pun intended) are we supposed to move forward when we are literally destroying the only home we have? Climate Change threatens our very existence. Although the warming of the planet is a very real and frightening threat for our present and our future, I now know this is not the most pressing issue that we face as a society.

Education is not only the single most pressing issue that we face, but it is also the solution to every single one of our problems. Quality education for all is the answer to everything.

I truly believe education can solve absolutely any problem that we face. When people are well educated and informed about any issue, they are more likely to take action and to find ways to solve the problem. They are also more likely to hold their governments or people in power accountable. At no other point in history have we been more environmentally aware, have done more for gender equality, or for diversity, than today, and I believe that education has achieved that progress. The internet, and social media in particular, has given an unprecedented opportunity for many professionals, experts, teachers, journalists, activists, every-day people, and in particular, young people, to use it as a platform to inform, educate, and engage people from all corners of the globe. Social media has inspired the global community, and especially, has inspired young people to know that they are never too young -- or too old -- to take action and to become leaders in their communities.

Without education, we have nothing. Without education, we would not be able to solve the biggest issues facing the world today. Education is not just learning a set of skills, it is about problem-solving, it is learning about your neighbors, exposing you to new ideas, to new challenges, to new ways of looking at the same thing. It opens up your mind, it consumes your soul. Education truly can change communities, regions, and the world.

Never stop learning new things, because tomorrow, it could be you changing the world.