Transition of Traditional and Public Diplomacy in the Age of Digitalization

Abstract

The landscape of international relations has continuously been transformed and influenced by abundant factors, paving the way for shifts in diplomatic practices. However, recently, the pace of change in conduct of diplomacy has notably accelerated with the rapid advancements in information and communication technologies (ICTs). Therefore, a new term “digital diplomacy” has emerged in describing the complex and multilayered impact of digital technologies on the theory and practice of diplomacy. This thesis aims to provide an insight into the role and effectiveness of digital diplomacy in the conduct of states’ foreign policies. Furthermore, it seeks to provide a portrayal of the development of digital diplomacy in transition of modern day diplomacy, including public diplomacy. In doing so, it first explores a diverse array of definitions and relevant concepts accompanying digital diplomacy and sheds light on the goals and methods of digital diplomacy. Considering that a sort of double change has been occurring in the field of traditional diplomacy since the beginning of this Millennium; one in the direction of increase in the volume of public diplomacy and second in the direction of digitalization of newly emerged diplomatic forms, the emphasis is put on the comparison of traditional diplomacy and digital diplomacy through the shifting roles of diplomacy practitioners from traditional to digital diplomat. Here, the thesis also explores the advantages and challenges of digital diplomacy, leading to evaluation of its efficiency. Building upon the argument that “although digital diplomacy enhances diplomatic efforts in contemporary era, traditional diplomacy which heavily rests on centuries-old statecraft through human-to-human interactions is still valuable”, the thesis concludes that diplomacy in the future will likely involve an integration of both traditional and digital approaches; not a total transformation of diplomacy but a smart utilization of new technology and tools to enhance traditional and public diplomacy methods.