Caviar diplomacy

A box of caviar

Robert Walter

Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu

Caviar Diplomacy refers to a form of diplomacy where countries, particularly those with rich natural resources like petroleum and gas, use expensive gifts such as caviar, a luxury delicacy, to influence international decisions or gain favor with foreign dignitaries and politicians. This term has been notably associated with Azerbaijan and its efforts to improve its image and political standing in Europe and beyond. The strategy involves lavish hospitality and the gifting of expensive items to sway the opinions of influential figures in international politics, media, and business sectors.

Origins and Usage

The term "Caviar Diplomacy" gained prominence following investigations and reports that highlighted how Azerbaijan's government allegedly sought to influence members of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) and other European institutions. The aim was to soften criticism of Azerbaijan's human rights record and to garner support for its political positions, particularly regarding the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, a disputed territory with Armenia.

Mechanisms

Caviar Diplomacy is executed through various means, including but not limited to:

• Inviting politicians, journalists, and influencers to Azerbaijan for all-expenses-paid trips, offering them a taste of luxury that includes gifts of caviar, gold, and silk carpets.
• Hosting lavish receptions and events in European capitals to foster relationships with European elites.
• Allegedly making direct financial contributions or offering lucrative contracts to individuals who can influence international opinion or policy in favor of Azerbaijan.

Criticism and Controversy

Critics argue that Caviar Diplomacy undermines the principles of democratic accountability and transparency. It is seen as a form of corruption that erodes the integrity of international institutions and the democratic process by influencing decision-makers not through rational argument and debate but through personal enrichment. The exposure of such practices has led to calls for greater transparency and reforms within international bodies to prevent undue influence by external actors.

Impact

The effectiveness of Caviar Diplomacy is debated. While it has arguably helped Azerbaijan improve its image in some quarters and muted criticism of its human rights record, it has also attracted significant negative attention once exposed. The revelations have sparked debates on the need for reforms in international governance structures to ensure that decision-making remains free from undue influence.

See Also

• Diplomatic gifts
• Corruption in international relations
• Foreign relations of Azerbaijan
• Human rights in Azerbaijan