Journal of Paradiplomacy and City Networks
Vol. 3 No. 1: June 2024

The Shift from Paradiplomacy to Protodiplomacy: A Comparative Study of Catalonia and Kurdistan

Margaretha Novianti Adistia (International Relations, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Jakarta, Indonesia)
Muhammad Anugrah Fidriansyah (International Relations, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Jakarta, Indonesia)
Rizka Yeza Utami (International Relations, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Jakarta, Indonesia)
Nofi Yanti (International Relations, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Jakarta, Indonesia)
Muhammad Faiz Krisnadi (Master's in International Affairs, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore, Singapore)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2024

Abstract

This article explored the transition from paradiplomacy to protodiplomacy in Catalonia and Kurdistan, two regions at the forefront of this shift. Protodiplomacy involves the direct participation of subnational entities in diplomatic activities akin to those of recognized nation-states, challenging traditional diplomatic hierarchies and altering the global diplomatic landscape. Catalonia has greater autonomy in matters such as governance and economy, while Kurdistan has more limited autonomy in matters such as security and governance. As such, this research showed that paradiplomacy could serve as a means to increase regional engagement in international politics. This research provided an in-depth analysis of how the South Sulawesi Provincial Government's paradiplomacy initiative impacts the export of agricultural products to Egypt. Through a comparative analysis of Catalonia and Kurdistan, this study elucidated the motivations, consequences, and challenges associated with this transition. It emphasized the significance of effective paradiplomacy practices between central and local governments. Catalonia and Iraqi Kurdistan exemplified modern paradiplomacy, showcasing their capabilities on an international stage. The research identified high Iraqi Kurdish nationalism as a key driver of the shift towards protodiplomacy in Kurdistan. It also highlighted the internal structural factors within Iraq that propelled Iraqi Kurdistan's diplomatic efforts, culminating in a referendum that marked a peak in separatist interest. This research underscored the dynamic nature of protodiplomacy, highlighting the motivations behind subnational diplomatic endeavors and the transformative implications for central-local government relations.

Copyrights © 2024






Journal Info

Abbrev

jumahi

Publisher

Subject

Social Sciences

Description

The core of the journal focuses on Paradiplomacy and City Networks which revolves around international cooperation by the regional government, and actorness such as mayors, local legislators, governors, and other sub-national elected officials who have traditionally engaged in international ...