Freelance diplomacy is a form of self-financing diplomatic representation used by countries who, as a general rule, cannot afford to hire expert diplomatic consultants full-time. [1]
A "freelance diplomat" is hired for a specific task or may sometimes be contracted on a permanent basis to run a delegation, mission or embassy. They may also used to promote investment into the country they work for. [2] It is understood to be a performance-based relationship, where the diplomat is paid on results only. [3]
Prominent freelance diplomats include.