"Diplomats are useful only in fair weather. As soon as it rains they drown in every drop"
- Charles de Gaulle
About this Quote
This quote by Charles de Gaulle is an objection of diplomats as well as their effectiveness in times of dilemma. He is suggesting that mediators are just beneficial when things are working out, however when a dilemma occurs they are not able to deal. The allegory of rainfall is made use of to stand for a situation, and the suggestion that mediators "sink in every decline" suggests that they are unable to take care of the pressure as well as are bewildered by the scenario. This quote suggests that diplomats are not outfitted to take care of difficult situations and also are not the best people to rely on in times of crisis. It suggests that people, such as political leaders or armed forces employees, may be much better fit to deal with difficult situations. This quote is a reminder that diplomats are not always the most effective individuals to look to in times of situation, which other individuals might be better fit to handle tight spots.
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