The setting up of an embassy and sending diplomats to a host state gives the sending state the ability to protect its interests in the former. For instance, it is able to issue protective documents for citizens living there. This function is essential, especially with increased travel. Furthermore, the diplomat is seen as a symbolic representation of his state, with diplomacy providing the opportunity to perform symbolic acts on the state's behalf.
While the perceived functions of diplomacy have changed little, the nature of diplomacy has evolved over time and is viewed in two distinct periods - classical and new diplomacy. In distinguishing between the two, a few areas of comparison can be considered - the existence of a diplomatic institution, its geographical focus, its participators, its conductors and the type of negotiation methods it undertakes. .
The period of classical diplomacy saw no institutionalization of diplomacy itself. No formality was established and it was carried out in a whimsical fashion under the executive control of the king, where the appointment of diplomats was arbitrary or done so though marriages, regardless of capability. However, with the extension of foreign affairs, the formalization of the institution took place under new diplomacy in the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which saw most states agreeing to rules on how diplomatic relations should be conducted between states. An example of this is the recognition that diplomats have to be protected. While previously there was the high possibility of the host country treating other diplomats badly, such documentation ensured that the diplomat was given immunity from the host country's jurisdiction. .
The nature of classical diplomacy was Eurocentric - international affairs were centered on Europe and European powers held the prime responsibility for diplomatic activity.
