International Journal of Cyber Diplomacy / 2025, Volume 6



Digital Diplomacy as a Tool to Study International Relations: An Appraisal

Rashmi Rani ANAND

rashmiranianandjnu@gmail.com


Abstract:

Digital diplomacy is a rapidly evolving concept that has the potential to revolutionize the way international relations are studied. Digital diplomacy refers to the use of digital technologies, such as social media platforms, blogs, podcasts, and other digital tools, to support diplomatic objectives and practices. In recent years, social media platforms, blogs, podcasts, and other digital tools have become an essential part of diplomatic practice, enabling diplomats to communicate directly with foreign audiences, engage in public diplomacy, and promote their country's interests online in the context of international relations. It involves the strategic use of these digital platforms to engage with foreign audiences, promote a country's interests, and influence public opinion in other countries. Digital diplomacy can be used for a range of diplomatic activities, including public diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, economic diplomacy, and political diplomacy. It also raises questions about the role of digital technologies in shaping international relations, such as the potential of digital platforms to facilitate conflict resolution, promote human rights, and foster international cooperation. This paper provides insights on different usages of digital diplomacy and assesses its potential to enhance people`s understanding of international relations. It argues that digital diplomacy offers a unique opportunity to study the dynamics of diplomatic communication, the role of social media in shaping public opinion, and the impact of new technologies on diplomatic practice. This paper also highlights some of the opportunities and challenges of digital diplomacy. Overall, this work concludes that digital diplomacy is a promising tool for studying international relations and that scholars should pay close attention to its development and evolution in the years to come.

Keywords:
Diplomacy, International relations, Digital platforms, Online social media

Full text:

CITE THIS PAPER AS:
Rashmi Rani ANAND, "Digital Diplomacy as a Tool to Study International Relations: An Appraisal", International Journal of Cyber Diplomacy, ISSN 2668-8662, vol. 6, pp. 97-111, 2025. https://doi.org/10.54852/ijcd.v6y202506