Diplomacy isn’t telling lies. People had at one time or the other referred to their colleagues, friends and relations as being diplomatic. From their tones, you can tell that they neither mean it as a compliment nor a criticism. Being diplomatic has nothing to do with lies, weakness or deception. It is about finding common ground. BETTY AMUKPO puts forward views of some children and teens.
‘Embracing diplomacy in communication fosters trust, resolves conflicts’
Diplomacy does not naturally indicate lies, although it often involves negotiation and compromise. In a Biblical context, honesty and integrity are highly valued. For example, Proverbs 12:22 states, “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.” Similarly, Ephesians 4:25 encourages believers to speak truthfully to one another. Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” In summary, telling lies and being diplomatic are fundamentally opposite traits. Lies are rooted in deception and carry significant ethical and relational risks, while diplomacy is grounded in honesty, tact, and respect. Embracing diplomacy in communication fosters trust, resolves conflicts, and strengthens relationships, both personally and professionally. By choosing to be diplomatic rather than deceptive, individuals can navigate interactions with integrity and effectiveness, contributing to a more honest and respectful world.

• Owuamanam Christabel
‘Diplomats should strive to be truthful while also being sensitive to their audience and context’
Diplomacy and lying are not synonymous, although some may use diplomacy to tactfully avoid the truth or convey a message in a way that is not entirely honest. In the Bible, Jesus teaches, “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one” (Matthew 5:37). This verse emphasises the importance of honesty and straightforwardness. However, diplomacy can involve tact, discretion, and careful wording to maintain relationships, avoid conflict, or achieve a greater good. The Bible also teaches wisdom and prudence in our words and actions (Proverbs 10:32, 15:1). In diplomacy, honesty and integrity are essential. Diplomats should strive to be truthful while also being sensitive to their audience and context. As the apostle Paul writes, “Speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15), balance honesty with compassion and tact. In summary, diplomacy does not necessarily indicate lies, but rather requires wisdom, tact, and honesty to navigate complex situations effectively.

• Blossom Akalezi
‘Diplomacy is grounded in honesty, tact and respect’
Diplomacy doesn’t necessarily indicate lies. The word of God warns against deceitful words and hypocrisy. Proverb 26:28, Mathew 23:28. Honest diplomacy can be done in a way that is truthful and respectful. Ephesians 4:15 asserts that we should strive for truthfulness in all interactions, stressing that diplomacy is grounded in honesty, tact and respect. Paul was one of the greatest diplomats of all time. He knows how to relate to others in a way to win them over to Christ. Being diplomatic is always good. Diplomatic individuals who exhibit politeness are indeed, beneficial for team spirit and cohesiveness. Diplomacy involves unmovable calmness, patience and an act of no folly, no provocation.

• Chima Anita.
‘Honesty is central to ethical diplomacy’
Diplomacy is the art of negotiating and managing relationships between nations to achieve peaceful and mutually beneficial outcomes. Does it indicate lies? Diplomacy does not inherently indicate lies, but rather the tactful handling of communication. However, the Bible warns against deceit. Proverbs 12:22 states, “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.” Honesty is central to ethical diplomacy, according to biblical principles.

• Chimamamda Ogoke Anthonia
‘Diplomacy can sometimes involve compromise’
Diplomacy can sometimes involve compromise or relativism, which may lead to perceived dishonesty. However, Proverbs 12:22 states, “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.” True diplomacy, grounded in honesty and integrity, aligns with biblical values. As Christians, we are called to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), promoting peace and understanding without deceit. Thus, while diplomacy might be misused, it does not inherently indicate lies.

• Arnold Akalezi
‘The goal of diplomacy is to find peaceful and constructive solutions’
No, diplomacy does not necessarily indicate lies. Diplomacy is the practice of conducting negotiations and relations between nations, organisations, or individuals in a tactful and strategic manner. It involves effective communication, active listening, and finding mutually beneficial solutions. While diplomacy may involve tactful language and avoiding blunt statements, it is not inherently dishonest. In fact, diplomatic efforts often rely on building trust, credibility, and strong relationships, which are founded on honesty and transparency. However, diplomacy can sometimes involve nuance, subtlety, and careful wording to avoid misinterpretation or conflict. This may lead to accusations of dishonesty or “diplomatic speak.” Nevertheless, the goal of diplomacy is to find peaceful and constructive solutions, not to deceive or mislead.

• Stephen Victory
‘Lies are rooted in deception’
Lies are rooted in deception and carry significant ethical and relational risks, while diplomacy is grounded in honesty, tact and respect. Matthew 18:15 instructs us to deal honestly with a brother over an offense, and not to tell it to others. In 1 Timothy, Paul speaks about the labour and reproach that come from trusting in God. The nation of trust can be translated into the context of diplomacy. However, it is good to note nations must trust each other to foster productive and peaceful relationship.

• Umennadi Francis Chibunna