What does a military diplomacy job involve?

I'm considering future career paths that involve international relations, and I've heard about military diplomacy jobs. What do these roles typically involve and what kind of skills or education would be beneficial?

A military diplomacy job falls under the broader scope of defense diplomacy, where military resources and personnel are used to support diplomatic efforts internationally. This might involve building relationships with foreign military media outlets, coordinating military missions with civilian and diplomatic parameters, or engaging in strategic bi-lateral or multilateral talks regarding defense cooperation, among other tasks.

In terms of skills, strong leadership and communication are key. Additionally, you need to be comfortable fostering relationships across cultural and language barriers, and come with an open mind and ability to approach sensitive issues with tact. High-stakes decision-making and conflict resolution skills will also serve you well in this field.

As for education, many individuals in military diplomacy have military backgrounds and, coupled with that, often hold a degree in International Relations, Political Science, or something similar. Master's degrees or other advanced study, especially with a focus on diplomacy or international affairs, can also be beneficial. Graduates of military academies and war colleges may more readily enter military diplomacy, due to the extensive training in defense and international relations provided by these institutions.

These roles also require a deep understanding of military organizations, chain of command structures, military strategy, and legal issues pertaining to global conflict and defense. Expertise in a specific geopolitical region including language proficiency could be highly beneficial too, depending on the country or region in which you're working. Familiarity with international law, conventions and treaties related to defense, arms control, and human rights can also be extremely useful.

Remember, the exact nature and responsibilities of roles in military diplomacy can vary widely depending on the specific position and the needs of the organization or country they are serving.