What Is An Envoy?

The simplest definition of the word envoy is – a representative of a nation that is visiting another country. An envoy might also be a diplomat, though most people consider a diplomat to have a slightly more permanent position in a particular country. The envoy or diplomat is generally considered to be on a level of representation just after the ambassador.

The word has origins in the 17th century, coming from the French envoye, with a similar base as the word voyage (think of journey or being on the way to somewhere). The word diplomat comes from the Greek “diploma.” The diploma was a piece of paper, usually folded, that certified some particular accomplishment or status. This type of document was also used as travelling papers on the roads of the Roman Empire.

A diplomat is usually charged with keeping the relationship between one country and another not only productive but also friendly. The idea of having an envoy or diplomat visit another country for specific purposes goes back for centuries. There have been many informal “envoy” or “diplomatic” missions between tribes and other populations, for the purpose of keeping the peace, agreeing on some particular action or just to exchange gifts.

Throughout history, an envoy has been considered a messenger with special protections and privileges. Over the years, this has transformed into the globally recognized immunity for diplomats who are on foreign soil. One of the reasons these diplomats are given such privileges is to remove some of the restrictions put on other citizens, freeing them to do their jobs more effectively. But an envoy or diplomat is also treated differently simply because he or she is a guest.

The work of an envoy might focus on putting a treaty or other agreement in place, engaging in economic discussions, or even making decisions about a nation’s art and culture. Not only is the work varied, but the ways that countries select or appoint an envoy or diplomat vary as well. The diplomat is often sent to another nation for a specific task, with plans to return in a few days or weeks after the mission is accomplished. This differs, of course, from the ambassador that usually resides in the country as a semi-permanent representative. Some career diplomats and envoys do spend extended periods in some countries.

In the past, as in more recent times, an envoy or diplomat was often chosen because of education and fluency in a particular language. In addition, diplomatic representatives are expected to behave impeccably as a representative of his or her home country. Diplomats of all levels are housed or work at an embassy, usually in a major city. One of the key tasks for the embassy staff is helping fellow citizens who have traveled from the home country to visit or work.

The concept of permanent embassy staffs didn’t develop until the 1700s, with the establishment of an embassy in European nations. India and some Asian nations also have a long history of professional envoy or diplomat positions.

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