Ramparts: Bastion's blog on diplomacy, technology, and innovation

Diplomacy Deserves Better Tools

The fundamentals of diplomacy haven't changed, but the world around it has. While we still build relationships, negotiate agreements, and represent our nations, we're often doing it with outdated processes, legacy systems, and workflows designed for a different era.

We believe diplomatic craft can be better.

About Bastion

Bastion is a collective of current and former diplomats committed to modernizing how we practice our craft. We're not trying to reinvent diplomacy—we're focused on making it more effective, efficient, and sustainable through smart technology adoption, streamlined processes, and better team management.

Our approach is practical and implementable: low-cost, out-of-the-box tech solutions that work within government constraints, proven processes that save time without sacrificing quality, and management techniques that help diplomatic teams stay focused on mission.

By diplomats, for diplomats.

About Ramparts

Ramparts is Bastion's blog, where former senior diplomats share what we've learned and provide analysis of diplomatic events today.

Here you'll find:

Weekly Newsletter → Strategic insights, tool reviews, and practical guidance delivered to your inbox

Tradecraft Library → Templates, checklists, and frameworks you can use immediately

Case Studies & Analysis → Real-world examples of what works (and what doesn't) in diplomatic technology adoption

Community Access → Connect with other diplomatic professionals navigating the same challenges

Why Subscribe?

Access the Full Archive

Your subscription unlocks our complete library of resources, including in-depth guides, exclusive templates, and case studies developed from real diplomatic operations.

Stay Current Without the Noise

Get curated insights delivered directly to your inbox. No algorithms, no social media chaos—just the information you need when you need it.

Join the Community

Connect with other diplomatic professionals who understand your challenges. Share experiences, ask questions, and learn from peers who've been where you are.

Support Independent Analysis

Your subscription enables us to maintain editorial independence and continue developing resources specifically for the diplomatic community—not watered down for a general audience.

Who We Serve

Current Diplomatic Staff looking to work smarter and more efficiently

Former Diplomats transitioning to new careers while staying connected to the craft

International Affairs Students preparing for diplomatic careers

Government Contractors supporting diplomatic missions

NGO and IO Professionals working in the diplomatic ecosystem

Our Commitment

We believe in practical solutions over theoretical frameworks, tested approaches over trendy buzzwords, and sustainable change over disruptive revolution. Every resource we create is designed to work within the real constraints of diplomatic life—limited budgets, security requirements, institutional inertia, and competing priorities.

Most importantly, we understand that good diplomacy is still about people, relationships, and trust. Technology should enhance these fundamentals, not replace them.

Ready to improve how you practice diplomacy? Start with our free newsletter and see what modern diplomatic tradecraft looks like.

Questions? Reach out at hello@bastionworks.co