Jonah Patel
The term 'e-diplomacy' refers to the use of technology and the internet to achieve diplomatic goals and objectives. It is a modern method of conducting diplomacy and international relations, which has been adopted by various state and non-state actors. E-diplomacy provides new avenues for engagement with influential people and organisations, allowing for the co-creation of multilateral diplomatic campaigns. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of safe and effective digital solutions, and the development of digital technologies such as Artificial Intelligence has accelerated rapidly, impacting the economy and society. E-diplomacy encompasses a range of tools and platforms, including social media, and has given rise to new diplomatic channels and practices, such as Facebook diplomacy, Twitter diplomacy, and Google diplomacy.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | The use of the Internet and new information communication technologies to help achieve diplomatic objectives |
| Who can practice it | State agencies such as Foreign Ministries, embassies and consulates, individual diplomats such as ambassadors or ambassadors-at-large, and non-state actors such as civil society and human rights groups |
| First e-diplomacy unit | The US State Department created the Taskforce on eDiplomacy in 2002 |
| Examples | The 2012-2014 Campaign to End Sexual Violence in Conflict, which used a multi-channel digital and offline approach to engage UN organizations as well as states |
| Impact | Provides additional avenues for other actors to engage in co-creation with influential people and organizations on multilateral diplomatic campaigns |
| Risks | Messages and images shared on social media platforms, particularly Twitter, have already given rise to diplomatic crises |
| EU Digital Diplomacy goals | To secure the EU global role in the digital world, to protect its strategic interests, and to promote its dynamic, human-centric regulatory framework for an inclusive digital transformation |
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What You'll Learn
E-diplomacy as a subset of e-governance
E-diplomacy, also referred to as digital diplomacy, is a new method of conducting diplomacy and international relations with the help of the Internet and information and communication technologies (ICTs). It is the study of the impact of these tools on contemporary diplomatic practices and the interplay between the internet and diplomacy. E-diplomacy focuses on internet-driven changes in the diplomatic environment and the emergence of new topics on diplomatic agendas such as cybersecurity, privacy, data governance, e-commerce, cybercrime, and AI governance.
E-diplomacy can be practiced by state agencies, individual diplomats, and non-state actors such as civil society and human rights groups. It provides additional avenues for engagement with influential people and organizations on multilateral diplomatic campaigns. For example, the 2012-2014 Campaign to End Sexual Violence in Conflict, launched by the British foreign secretary William Hague, used a multi-channel digital and offline approach to engage UN organizations and states.
The use of digital tools in diplomacy, such as social media, online conferencing, big data, and AI analysis, has changed the relative influence of diplomatic actors. A study by Ilan Manor and Elad Segev in 2020 found that states with less hard power could use social media to become "supernodes" in online diplomatic networks, a concept known as the "theory of networked diplomacy".
As a subset of e-governance, e-diplomacy is concerned with the use of digital tools and technologies to achieve diplomatic objectives and address emerging policy issues in the digital realm. Diplo, a non-profit foundation established by the governments of Malta and Switzerland, works to improve global governance and international policy development, including in the area of e-diplomacy. The foundation's research and initiatives contribute to the growing field of e-diplomacy and its intersection with e-governance.
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The interplay between the internet and diplomacy
The term 'e-diplomacy' or 'digital diplomacy' refers to the use of the internet, digital technologies, and information and communication technologies (ICTs) to achieve diplomatic objectives and establish diplomatic goals. It involves the interplay between the internet and diplomacy, ranging from internet-driven changes in the environment in which diplomacy is conducted to the emergence of new topics on diplomatic agendas such as cybersecurity and privacy.
The internet has transformed the way diplomacy is conducted by providing new avenues for actors to engage in multilateral diplomatic campaigns and influence international relations. For example, the 2012-2014 Campaign to End Sexual Violence in Conflict, launched by the British foreign secretary, used a multi-channel digital and offline approach to engage UN organizations and states. Digital diplomacy can be practiced by state agencies, individual diplomats, and non-state actors such as civil society and human rights groups.
The use of social media as a diplomatic channel has also changed the relative influence of diplomatic actors, allowing states with less hard power to become "supernodes" in online diplomatic networks. This has been referred to as the "theory of networked diplomacy." However, these new diplomatic channels come with risks, as messages and images shared on social media platforms can lead to diplomatic crises.
The development of digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence, has accelerated rapidly, and the COVID pandemic highlighted the importance of safe and effective digital solutions for a more accessible and equal world. The EU, for example, has recognized the importance of digital diplomacy in promoting human rights and democracy, calling on all states to combat internet shutdowns, digital surveillance, and data privacy breaches.
In conclusion, the interplay between the internet and diplomacy has led to the emergence of new methods and modes of conducting diplomacy, providing opportunities for engagement and influence in international relations. However, it also comes with challenges and risks that need to be carefully navigated.
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The emergence of new topics on diplomatic agendas
The use of these digital tools has brought about a shift in diplomatic practices, with new topics emerging on the agendas of nations and international organisations. One notable area is cybersecurity, which has become a critical issue with the increasing reliance on digital technologies. Protecting critical infrastructure, safeguarding personal and sensitive information, and preventing cyber-attacks have become key concerns for governments and diplomatic entities.
Another emerging topic is privacy, particularly in the context of data privacy and digital surveillance. With vast amounts of personal data now being generated and collected online, ensuring the protection of individuals' privacy rights has become a diplomatic priority. This includes addressing data breaches, advocating for transparent data handling practices, and promoting human rights in the digital realm.
The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the importance of digital solutions and accelerated the development and adoption of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence. This has led to a more complex international security context, with digital technologies becoming a driver of geopolitical competition and a barometer of global influence. As a result, issues surrounding technology transfer, intellectual property, and digital trade have gained prominence in diplomatic discussions.
Additionally, e-diplomacy has facilitated the participation of non-state actors in diplomatic processes. This includes civil society organisations, human rights groups, and other non-governmental elements. Their engagement enriches diplomatic discussions and brings diverse perspectives, particularly in areas such as environmental protection, social justice, and economic development.
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The role of non-state actors in e-diplomacy
E-diplomacy, also referred to as digital diplomacy, is the use of the internet and new information and communication technologies (ICTs) to achieve diplomatic objectives. It involves the interplay between the internet and diplomacy, from internet-driven changes in the diplomatic environment to the emergence of new topics on diplomatic agendas such as cybersecurity and privacy.
Non-state actors, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), multinational corporations, industry associations, and international organizations, play an increasingly important role in e-diplomacy. They engage in dialogue with governments, influence policymakers and diplomats, and participate in international conventions, forums, and negotiations to achieve common goals. These non-state actors have become key partners for governments in advancing new issues such as biotechnology, genetically modified (GM) foods, the environment, and climate change.
One example of the role of non-state actors in e-diplomacy is the 2012-2014 Campaign to End Sexual Violence in Conflict, launched by the British foreign secretary, William Hague. This campaign used a multi-channel digital and offline approach to engage UN organizations and states. A video featuring Angelina Jolie, a UN Special Envoy, supporting the campaign attracted 15,000 views, demonstrating the potential reach and impact of non-state actors in e-diplomacy.
NGOs, in particular, have gained a positive reputation, address specific issues with expertise, engage in dialogue with governments and publics, and have created important networks and virtual communities. For example, after the 2004 tsunami in Indonesia, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and Muslim Indonesian NGOs worked together to rebuild the country.
Additionally, multinational corporations and industry groups can also influence diplomats and shape attitudes among policymakers. However, they may promote their own ideals and pursue their own interests, such as advancing their agenda, relaxing regulations, and changing policies.
In conclusion, non-state actors play a crucial role in e-diplomacy by engaging with governments, influencing policymakers, and advancing new issues. They contribute to achieving diplomatic objectives and can amplify their reach and impact through the use of digital tools and platforms.
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The impact of digital diplomacy on EU global role and digital cooperation at the global level
The term 'e-diplomacy' or 'digital diplomacy' refers to the use of the internet, information, and communication technologies (ICTs) to achieve diplomatic objectives. It involves the interplay between the internet and diplomacy, from internet-driven changes in the diplomatic environment to emerging topics on diplomatic agendas such as cybersecurity and privacy. Digital diplomacy has provided new avenues for actors to engage in multilateral diplomatic campaigns and has altered the relative influence of diplomatic actors, with states possessing less hard power now able to become "supernodes" in online diplomatic networks through their use of social media and other online channels.
The EU has recognized the importance of digital diplomacy in securing its global role in the digital world, protecting its strategic interests, and promoting its regulatory framework for an inclusive digital transformation. It has developed a comprehensive network of bilateral and regional partnerships, including digital partnerships with strategic partners and alliances, as well as digital dialogues with global partners. The EU-US Trade and Technology Council (EU-US TTC), for example, has become a central pillar for transatlantic cooperation on international technology ecosystems.
To strengthen its global role, the EU has proposed priority actions for a stronger, more strategic, coherent, and effective EU policy and action in global digital affairs. This includes enhanced coordination and strategic engagement with multilateral and multistakeholder fora, further development of bilateral and regional partnerships, particularly in critical and emerging technologies, and scaling up EU leadership on global digital rules.
At the global level, digital diplomacy has facilitated cooperation and the development of shared initiatives. The UN Secretary-General's High-level Panel on Digital Cooperation, for instance, provided recommendations on digital governance, outlining proposed models such as co-governance, IGF Plus, and Digital Commons. Digital tools have also enabled diplomats to engage in negotiations, representation, communication, and policy analysis, with social media playing a significant role in public diplomacy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, diplomacy shifted to online conferencing platforms, demonstrating the adaptability of diplomatic practices to technological advancements.
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Frequently asked questions
E-diplomacy, or electronic diplomacy, is the use of technology and the internet to define and establish diplomatic goals and objectives and to efficiently carry out the functions of diplomats.
E-diplomacy can be practiced by state agencies such as foreign ministries, embassies, and consulates, individual diplomats such as ambassadors, and non-state actors such as civil society and human rights groups.
E-diplomacy provides additional avenues for actors to engage in co-creation with influential people and organizations on multilateral diplomatic campaigns. It also allows states to listen to their audiences' perceptions of their foreign policy and can provide a means for states that have severed formal diplomatic ties to collect information about each other's foreign policy positions.
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