Introduction: Managing Multilateral Knowledge

Studies in diplomacy and international relations, pp. 1–26

Abstract

This introductory chapter situates the study, highlighting the relevance and importance of considering the concept and practice of knowledge management (KM) in the professional setting of multilateral negotiation processes at the United Nations (UN). Focusing on the UN First Committee cyber negotiations as its case study, the objectives of the book are outlined, including (1) identifying any practices within these negotiations that can be conceptualized as acts of KM; and thus (2) characterizing the approach taken to KM within them; as well as (3) analysing how these practices have evolved as the negotiations have developed. The chapter introduces the reader to the practical and scholarly context of KM and presents the theoretical framework and methodology specifically designed for undertaking this study. An overview of the contribution and structure of the book concludes this introductory chapter.

Authors 1

1. Lise H. Andersen corresponding Aachen Institute of Security and Global Affairs

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   Institute of Security and Global Affairs, Leiden University, The Hague, The Netherlands