Scandinavian Diplomatic Networks

This article examines the makeup and inner workings of Scandinavian diplomatic networks and the close ties between Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish diplomats. The article argues that Scandinavian diplomatic networks are forged through the close informal links that exist across the Scandinavian and Nordic region, which are reinforced by a strong framework of formal ties within the region. However, the position of Scandinavian officials who work for international organisations (IOs) within Scandinavian diplomatic networks is more blurred, with many having little or no ties to either Scandinavian diplomats or their home governments, although those Scandinavians who have been parachuted into senior IO positions may have close network ties with Scandinavian diplomats.