WikiLeaks and the Enforcement of Transparency - Classification and Consequences of Disclosed Diplomatic Correspondence

Abstract: WikiLeaks‘disclosure of US diplomatic correspondence is an active enforcement of transparency, and is at the same time challenging the fundamental norm of diplomatic secrecy. Since WikiLeaks has disclosed unsorted material, the purpose of this research is to classify the material. A classification is thus proposed, but I do not have the ambition to sort material into the respective classes. Actconsequentialism is applied to further an objective and hypothetical analysis of how each respective class is affecting the two segments of the elite and the public. A theory of diplomacy is outlined, as well as a dilemma between the two principles of secrecy and transparency to provide deeper understanding of the problem. Based on the proposed classes, consequences of disclosing the diplomatic correspondence will be discussed. This is done in relation to the two segments of the elite and the public. Therefore, several conclusions will be arrived at in the dilemma at hand.