Freelance diplomacy is a form of self-financing diplomatic representation used by countries who as a general rule, could not afford to hire expert diplomatic consultants full-time.[1]
A "freelance diplomat" is hired for a specific task or may sometimes be contracted on a permanent basis to run a delegation, mission or embassy. They may also used to promote investment into the country they work for.[2] It is understood to be a performance-based relationship, where the diplomat is paid on results only.[3]