The Editor's Page.

• Author: Smith, Raymond F.

The Commentary section of this issue offers perspectives on the practice of diplomacy that range from the historical through the contemporary to considerations of future challenges. Thomas E. McNamara offers a perspective on the Monroe Doctrine that emphasizes the brilliant diplomacy practiced by John Quincy Adams, the first American secretary of state. In her account of violent struggles for power in the Central African Republic, June Carter Perry captures both the personal and professional challenges faced by diplomatic personnel in dangerous environments. Those who think diplomatic life is all tea and crumpets should read this. Mark Wentling explains how a required document, the mission strategic plan, which is often regarded as no more than a tedious bureaucratic exercise, could be transformed into a more useful tool for shaping development and assistance efforts. Finally, David Satterfield outlines some of the ways the US diplomatic service has adapted successfully to the institutional and technological challenges of the last several decades and points to areas where it still has work to do. He discusses the diplomatic challenges posed by the war in Ukraine, the rise of China, and the internal conflicts that continue to ravage Sudan.

In their Eyewitness accounts, William Harrop and Ed Marks illustrate how a clever diplomat thinking outside the box can, or at least might, make a large impact with limited resources. Diplomats often serve assignments in places with limited opportunities for social activities. Robert Pearson describes pick-up baseball games in 1980s...