envoys

An envoy is a person who represents a government or ruler in negotiations and diplomacy. Historically an envoy was a diplomat who carried messages and had authority to negotiate for the sending state, but whose powers were often more limited than those of an ambassador. In contemporary use, the term is commonly applied to diplomats assigned to a specific mission or issue, such as a special envoy charged with peace talks, regional policy, or crisis response.

Types and scope: A special envoy is appointed for a particular task; a plenipotentiary envoy may hold broad negotiating authority within defined limits. When a mission requires full authority, an envoy may be designated as an ambassador or as an envoy with full plenipotentiary powers, effectively equivalent to an ambassador.

Role and duties: Envoys participate in diplomacy, deliver messages, report developments, facilitate dialogue, and negotiate agreements within their mandate. They may also represent their government at official ceremonies and interact with foreign leaders, foreign ministries, and international organizations.

Appointment and credentials: Envoys are appointed by the head of state or government and are typically accredited to the receiving state. Their credentials or letters of credence are presented to the head of state or foreign ministry.

Legal and historical context: Modern diplomacy is governed by customary international law and treaty-based practices. The term “envoy” survives alongside “ambassador,” with envoys often serves limited or issue-specific roles or functioning within a legation or other diplomatic framework.