Цифровізація зовнішньої політики та публічна дипломатія: досвід Туреччини і Великої Британії

Abstract

This article is devoted to researching the transformation of a state's foreign policy in the context of digitalisation and the growing role of public diplomacy as a tool for promoting national interests on the international stage. An analysis of the conceptual foundations of public diplomacy is carried out, as well as the features of the integration of information and communication technologies into the foreign policy activities of the state (the use of social media, digital platforms and strategic communication tools). It has been established that digitalisation significantly expands the tools of public diplomacy and strengthens its influence on the formation of the state's international image.An analysis of the experience of Turkey and the United Kingdom in implementing public diplomacy as states demonstrating different models of it has been carried out. It has been determined that Turkey is characterised by the active introduction of digital tools in the formation of foreign policy, combining traditional diplomatic practices, digital communications and public diplomacy, but the key characteristic remains centralisation and strategic coordination within the presidential system, which distinguishes Turkey from the more decentralised models of the EU and the United Kingdom. In turn, the UK, as one of the first countries to introduce digitalisation into the work of foreign policy institutions, is modernising its digital strategy, which aims to strengthen traditional diplomacy, expand influence and communication. It has been established that both countries are characterised by the strengthening of soft power as a component of modern foreign policy through cultural projects and educational initiatives (British Council, Yunus Emre Enstitüsü), but the challenge for Turkey is digital control in the information sphere, and for the UK – the balance between freedom of digital space and state positions.