Personal connections --- I would agree with Desiree....having a concrete and validated information from the ground (still) can't be replaced with information gathered via internet, especially knowing how much fake news there are out there on the net.

Another important element is the fact that only via 'real work' one can establish personal connection which may prove to be crucial in certain situations down the road. I'm sure all of you who have been in the diplomatic service long enough could share examples of personal connections between diplomats from two (opposing) sides helping overcome an obstacle in negotiations, etc.

If free to share such examples, please do it here.

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu