Foreign policy in an era of digital diplomacy

Abstract

The Internet revolution has affected all aspects of life, including International relations. Diplomacy as a tool of foreign policy has also being transformed by this revolution. This paper examines the concept of digital diplomacy, focusing on the use of digital media in the field of diplomacy and how countries are utilizing these tools in the pursuit of their foreign policies. It examines the opportunities and challenges these media offer for diplomatic activities, and argues that countries cannot afford to be left behind in this era of digital diplomacy as they can greatly benefit from these emerging diplomatic trends. Digital diplomacy and Internet activities as a whole can greatly assist in projecting a state’s foreign policy positions to domestic and foreign audiences.

Keywords:

• foreign policy
• digital diplomacy
• soft power
• diplomacy

Public Interest Statement

Digital diplomacy is usually conceptualized as a form of public diplomacy. It involves the use of digital technologies and social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Weibo by states to enter into communication with foreign publics usually in a non-costly manner. This paper examines the concept of digital diplomacy, focusing on the use of digital media in the field of diplomacy and how countries are utilizing these tools in the pursuit of their foreign policies. It examines the opportunities and challenges these media offer for diplomatic activities, and argues that countries cannot afford to be left behind in this era of digital diplomacy as they can greatly benefit from these emerging diplomatic trends. Digital diplomacy does not actually replace the traditional face-to-face diplomacy. Traditional and digital diplomacy co-exist and complement, rather than compete with, each other. Digital diplomacy and Internet activities as a whole can greatly assist in projecting a state’s foreign policy positions to domestic and foreign audiences.

Additional information

Funding

Funding. The author received no direct funding for this research.

Notes on contributors

Olubukola S. Adesina

Olubukola S. Adesina obtained doctorate degree in Political Science from the University of Natal (now University of Kwazulu-Natal), Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. She is currently a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Political Science, University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Her area of specialization is International Relations. She has publications in the field of International Relations and on issues of human security in both local and international journals.