COM3705
ASSIGNMENT 3 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DUE: 23 MAY 2025
, COM3705 ASSIGNMENT 3 (PORTFOLIO) SEMESTER 1 2025
QUESTION 1: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS (Dzuni Mtimbani)
1.1 Introduction (3 marks)
The relationship between countries is not always smooth. Sometimes leaders make
statements that cause tension, especially when misunderstandings and misinformation
are involved. This essay will explore the concept of diplomacy, explain how
misinformation can create problems in international relations, and examine the events
surrounding the expulsion of South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool by the United
States. We will also discuss the right diplomatic methods that could have been used to
handle the situation.
1.2 Understanding diplomacy and examples of diplomatic conversation (10
marks)
Diplomacy is the practice of managing international relations through peaceful talks and
negotiations between representatives of countries. It is about solving problems,
promoting national interests, and avoiding conflict. Diplomacy happens through official
meetings, formal letters, or quiet discussions between diplomats. For example, when
countries have disagreements over trade, they may send ambassadors or ministers to
meet and find a solution. A good example is how South Africa has often used diplomatic
talks in the African Union to resolve issues between neighbouring countries. Another
example is how global leaders attend the United Nations meetings to discuss matters
like climate change or world peace without causing fights or wars.
1.3 Understanding misinformation and why the article contains it (15 marks)
Misinformation means false or misleading information that is spread, either on purpose
or by mistake. It can be very harmful, especially in politics and international relations. In
the article, former President Trump claimed that South Africa was taking land from white
ASSIGNMENT 3 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DUE: 23 MAY 2025
, COM3705 ASSIGNMENT 3 (PORTFOLIO) SEMESTER 1 2025
QUESTION 1: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS (Dzuni Mtimbani)
1.1 Introduction (3 marks)
The relationship between countries is not always smooth. Sometimes leaders make
statements that cause tension, especially when misunderstandings and misinformation
are involved. This essay will explore the concept of diplomacy, explain how
misinformation can create problems in international relations, and examine the events
surrounding the expulsion of South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool by the United
States. We will also discuss the right diplomatic methods that could have been used to
handle the situation.
1.2 Understanding diplomacy and examples of diplomatic conversation (10
marks)
Diplomacy is the practice of managing international relations through peaceful talks and
negotiations between representatives of countries. It is about solving problems,
promoting national interests, and avoiding conflict. Diplomacy happens through official
meetings, formal letters, or quiet discussions between diplomats. For example, when
countries have disagreements over trade, they may send ambassadors or ministers to
meet and find a solution. A good example is how South Africa has often used diplomatic
talks in the African Union to resolve issues between neighbouring countries. Another
example is how global leaders attend the United Nations meetings to discuss matters
like climate change or world peace without causing fights or wars.
1.3 Understanding misinformation and why the article contains it (15 marks)
Misinformation means false or misleading information that is spread, either on purpose
or by mistake. It can be very harmful, especially in politics and international relations. In
the article, former President Trump claimed that South Africa was taking land from white
