The Influence Of Social Media On Diplomacy: A Case Study Of US-Russia Relations
Date
2022-08
Authors
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Publisher
University Of Ghana
Abstract
Social media has now become a major part of modern diplomacy with countries all over the world
embracing it as an alternative medium of communication within diplomacy. Facebook, Twitter,
Instagram, YouTube, websites and blogs are examples of dominant social media platforms used
by states and non-states alike. The use of social media in diplomacy has given rise to public
diplomacy efforts, e-diplomacy or digital diplomacy and soft power and consequently transformed
modern diplomacy. The aim of the study was to examine the impact of social media on the conduct
and execution of modern diplomacy. The study measured the extent of social media's influence on
diplomatic relations between the USA and Russia particularly and drew out some benefits and
challenges as well as preferred solutions to the challenges. The research design of the study made
use of the qualitative method in collecting, analyzing and interpreting data. The sampling method
employed was the non-probability technique of purposive sampling because the selected sample
had adequate information pertaining to the theme of the study. From the findings, social media has
enhanced communication between diplomats and their target audiences while some shortcomings
include security breaches and the propagation of fake news. Recommendations based on the
findings include social media training courses for diplomats to enable them to stay on top of
situations, improvement of security measures to protect information and data and measures to deal
with propagators of false information.
Description
M.A. International Affairs
Keywords
Social Media, Diplomacy, US-Russia, Relations