Can digital diplomacy on a personal level really have effect on the world? In Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s initial proposal the for 21st Century Statecraft initiative, she pushes for individuals to be personal ambassadors who can use experiences and networks to help problems on a global scale. However, I cannot help but wonder how much effect efforts on the individual level like this could really have on diplomacy overall?
In examining this idea further, I discovered this was not a new idea presented in the 21st Century initiative. There have been organizations, most notably the U.S. Center for Citizen Diplomacy (CCP), and initiative that have been around here in the U.S. for quite sometime. In looking into the efficacy of this type of diplomacy, I found many cases and examples of shaping positive foreign relations on an individual basis but could not find much empirical data on how much this can positively affect foreign policies of nations as a whole.
Additionally, when coupled with social media and generating digital citizen diplomacy, I am even more skeptical about the efficacy of these efforts. While I agree that this can produce exposure and spread of positive information with regard to foreign policy, I don’t think quantity ensures quality in this case. While the multitude of tools and technologies available presents great opportunities, I cannot help but be skeptical about their practical utility. Can a few tweets and texts really take the place of government instituted programs and initiatives on the ground around the world?
The CCP recently published a report outlining ten recommendations for improving citizen diplomacy in the digital age. As an opponent of social media, am I simply being too critical of the possibilities with regard to this new technology? Or do you agree with me that, although admirable in ideals, this type of diplomacy will prove insignificant in the face of traditional diplomatic relations and protocols?
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