Summary
Role of the diplomat
At the embassy
In his country of residence, the diplomat observes and analyzes the political, economic and cultural situation. It transmits this information to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on a daily basis.
At the consulate
The diplomat is also responsible for the administration of French people residing in the host country: car registration, civil status, elections, assistance in the event of difficulty, etc.
In addition, it issues visas to foreigners wishing to stay in France.
Diplomat working conditions
Without fixed country
The diplomat rarely stays more than 3 or 4 years in each country. He therefore changed assignments more than 10 times during his career.
Close to citizens
The diplomat is responsible for the nationals of his country. He can be confronted with particularly difficult situations: guerrilla warfare, political unrest, natural disaster… Which requires being present “on the ground”, and showing a lot of composure.
How much does a diplomat earn?
The diplomat receives a civil servant’s salary, consisting of a salary and a residence allowance.
The salary is fixed by the index scale of the public service, according to the grade of the agent.
Training to become a diplomat
Bac +3 competition
To become a diplomat, you have to pass the foreign affairs adviser or secretary contest. It is accessible with a Master 1 level.
After the baccalaureate, it is therefore necessary to consider university studies, in political science, economics, law, history… Or else try an Institute of Political Studies, or even the Ecole Normale Supérieure.
Before leaving
The diplomat begins his political career at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, at least for the first 2 years. To evolve, it is imperative that fluent in two foreign languages at least. In all cases, diplomats are sent abroad after having already had a long diplomatic career in France.
Qualifications needed to be a diplomat
Worth of trust
The diplomat is an irreproachable man, trustworthy… He negotiates and signs agreements, he takes steps, in his name, as the representative of the President of the Republic.
Risk appetite
The diplomat must show initiative, but also courage. This is particularly the case if he is assigned to a dangerous or at-risk country.
Brilliant in society
The diplomat must create and maintain quality relationships with influential people and local notables. Thus, he may be required to meet ministers, but also actors, writers, sportsmen… A solid general knowledge (political, legal, historical, economic…) is essential.
Personal investment
The diplomat is doing fascinating work. But he has to agree to move, very often. He must like to travel, of course.
He doesn’t have to count his hours either: between meetings, dinners… his work takes him beyond the strict office hours.
Content updated on 05/29/2012