Introduction to Ethnodiplomacy and its Contradictions
Mexico’s and Argentina’s diplomatic approaches seem to be preoccupied with dogmas, as exemplified by Javier Milei’s insults towards Spanish President Pedro Sánchez and Claudia Sheinbaum echoing Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s (AMLO) criticisms against the monarchy.
The Concept of Ethnodiplomacy
Ethnodiplomacy, an apparent paradox, refers to the study of contradictions in reality, as Jorge Luis Borges was fascinated by. It is not a state-level diplomacy, which aims to combat ignorance fostered by the belief that one’s country is the “best in the world.” Instead, it builds bridges that are not suitable for ideological traffic, as these ideologies are too heavy and can tear them apart.
AMLO’s Influence on Mexico-Spain Relations
AMLO has institutionalized aggression against Spain. Despite diplomats from both countries maintaining a positive bilateral relationship, evidenced by numerous weekly flights, AMLO’s influence on a specific segment of the population—similar to Sheinbaum’s current influence—does fuel stereotypes and resentment towards Spain.
A Surreal Example of Mexican Ethnodiplomacy
On October 14, a lamentable and surreal scene of Mexican ethnodiplomacy unfolded. Spanish Ambassador Juan Duarte Cuadrado delivered an excellent speech on the bilateral relationship during the Day of Hispanity celebration. Jennifer Feller, then Director for Europe at SRE, was present representing the Secretary of Foreign Affairs. Duarte referred to Feller as “my friend,” but she remained silent amidst over a thousand attendees due to the “diplomatic pause” created by AMLO, upheld by Sheinbaum.
Negative Consequences of Ethnodiplomacy
The jovial ethnodiplomacy will negatively impact, for example, Alicia Barcena’s attempt to become the UN Secretary General, as several countries might veto her due to perceived anti-Spanish sentiments.
- OEA Criticism: Mexico’s President is upset with the OEA regarding baroque and surreal judicial elections. Is a democratic profile compatible with the disappearance of checks and balances?
- Secretary of Foreign Affairs’ Travel: Is it normal for the Secretary of Foreign Affairs not to travel abroad?
- Embassy Maintenance: Is it normal for Mexico’s embassy in London to have leaking roofs with no budget to fix them?
- Ambassador Tenure: Is it normal for several ambassadors to serve for over six years due to a lack of funding for their household items?
Regardless of these issues, the dogmas remain paramount.
