Representational

Like many sub-cultures the U.S. foreign service has its own lingo. One fun sub-culture word is “representational.” We have representational funds, representational events, representational duties. The word refers to official events hosted by the U.S. government for contacts (foreign government officials, other diplomats, CEOs and NGO leaders, etc. – Important people in the host country) with the purpose of enhancing U.S. relations. This usually translates into dinners or parties (we call them receptions) where diplomats mingle pseudo-socially with contacts but with the clear understanding that this is work related and you are REPRESENTING the U.S. government.

Representational events come in all sizes and flavors from small informal dinners to the event of the year – the 4th of July party. So what are we really representing? Well, the primary goal is to represent U.S. foreign policy goals. In one way, we are experts as we work on various aspects of it every day. On the other hand, we aren’t given a formal business pitch or list of talking points so we aren't experts. This is an opportunity for contacts to talk to us about anything – and we answer honestly, keeping in mind we are REPRESENTING the U.S. government.

Guests take different approaches to these events.
First there is that guy that just wants to meet the VIPs (the Ambassador, the host-country President, the UN Ambassador, etc.). Then there is the guest who just wants to enjoy the food and the music. Next there are those who want to promote their NGO or business (human rights organizations, security consulting, etc.). We think their work is very interesting and congratulate them on their success thus far (they are obviously successful if they’ve been invited). If they are seeking information about grants or visas or partnerships we get their information and let them contact us, then we forward this on to the proper U.S. employee.

This is all part of being "diplomatic." Sounds easy enough, but it gets tough when someone wants to talk politics or gets overly social. You really have to remind yourself you are REPRESENTING the U.S. government and by extension..you, the American people too. Here are some examples:

What are your opinions of Israeli democracy? Ehh… I’m a Latin American studies major, I don’t know anything about Israeli democracy! Is this a trick question? Be agreeable, but not insulting (the Minister is right behind you!). Informed and articulate – you are representing the U.S. and you don’t want to let your country down! Democracy comes in many forms and must always adapt to the culture of its people.

I'm from St. Anne’s. I will plan a trip for you to come to mass in my city. Aw dang it! That sounds amazing!!! But there is no way security will let me go there! Too dangerous. That sounds so interesting! How long have you been at St. Anne’s?

We are from the Canadian navy. Canada has a navy? Really?!? Hahaha! Don't say that! Don’t laugh!! Canada? Nice to meet you! Happy Canada Day!

  

(Pool photo by Oded Balilty, New York Times, "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a Fourth of July party at the American ambassador’s home in Israel on Thursday.")