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International Relations & Diplomacy vocabulary · Negotiation & Summit Language

Delegation

Meaning in international relations & diplomacy, with examples

/ˌdelɪˈɡeɪʃən/nounCore term

In international relations & diplomacy, delegation means: A group of people chosen to represent a country or organisation at a meeting, conference or negotiation, usually led by a head of delegation.

In Turkish: heyet, delegasyon

How it is used

Delegations are sent, led and received, and their members are 'delegates'. In UN meetings speakers say 'my delegation' to mean their country: 'My delegation supports the draft.' In management, 'delegation' also means giving tasks to others, a different meaning.

Example sentences

  1. A ten-member delegation will travel to the capital for the trade talks.

  2. The head of delegation thanked the hosts for their hospitality.

  3. My delegation would like to propose a small change to paragraph four.

Common collocations

  • head of delegation
  • lead a delegation
  • send a delegation
  • trade delegation
  • high-level delegation
  • negotiationFormal discussion between parties who are trying to reach an agreement, in which each side presents its position, makes proposals and may accept compromises.
  • summitA high-level meeting between heads of state or government, often lasting a day or two, to discuss major issues and agree on joint decisions or statements.
  • diplomatAn official who represents their country abroad or in international organisations, handling relations, negotiations and the protection of their country's interests and citizens.
  • talksFormal discussions between governments or groups, usually to solve a problem or reach an agreement; in this meaning the word is always plural.

More terms: Negotiation & Summit Language

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