INDIA’S GROWING INFLUENCE IN THE GLOBAL TECH LANDSCAPE
Introduction:
Science fiction has long explored the impact of technology on human interaction. Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey” envisioned the influence of artificial intelligence on interpersonal relationships. This concept finds a fascinating parallel in today’s world, where digital technologies are dramatically reshaping the landscape of diplomacy.
The past decade has witnessed a surge in governments’ use of digital tools to conduct international affairs. Public diplomacy, traditionally focused on one-way communication, is now characterised by interactive platforms like Skype conversations between ambassadors and international students. Social media has become a vital instrument for active engagement and entertainment. It has also led to the evolution of Digital diplomacy into a standard practice. It no longer remains a novel experiment. This emerging new era of international communication has been experimented with by early adopters like Sweden and the U.S. Sweden presents us with its virtual embassy in Second Life, and the U.S., with its dedicated digital outreach team, has paved the way for digital diplomacy and management.
Digital diplomacy, a new idea, rapidly influences traditional diplomatic practices due to the advancement in communication and new forms of international diplomacy. Its potential benefits, challenges, and role in the intricate world of international relations need holistic observation, especially in the context of India. By highlighting the potential benefits, we can invoke a sense of optimism and possibility in our audience, encouraging them to explore this new frontier.
TRACING THE ORIGINS OF DIGITAL DIPLOMACY
The early 1990s is marked by two key developments pertinent to the origins of digital diplomacy. The 1992 Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit witnessed the first large-scale use of digital tools in international affairs. Civil society activists leveraged email and mailing lists to coordinate their efforts during negotiations. This event demonstrated the potential of the Internet to empower non-state actors.
This innovation coincided with establishing the first Unit for Computer Applications in Diplomacy at the Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies in Malta, also in 1992. This unit later evolved into the DiploFoundation, a leading institution dedicated to researching and educating diplomats on the impact of technology on international relations. The DiploFoundation’s work over the past two decades has been instrumental in shaping the understanding and practice of digital diplomacy. These early developments laid the groundwork in the sphere of digital diplomacy.
In 2010, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) embarked on a groundbreaking journey into the digital age. It sent its first tweet, a move spearheaded by Ambassador Navdeep Suri. This bold initiative marked the MEA’s foray into the world of digital diplomacy, catapulting it to a leadership position within the Indian government. The MEA’s effective use of Twitter during the 2011 Libyan civil war, which facilitated the evacuation of over 18,000 Indian citizens, stands as a testament to the power of digital tools in crises. Today, the active social media presence of both the MEA and the cabinet of the Government of India reflects the growing importance of this domain in the contemporary world.
INDIA’S BILATERAL RELATIONS THROUGH DIGITAL DIPLOMACY
India’s commitment to digital diplomacy extends beyond public-facing social media platforms. While tools like Twitter and Facebook are crucial for public engagement, Indian diplomats explore a range of internal digital tools to enhance their professional interactions.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) utilises Internet servers to facilitate the rapid exchange of information. Additionally, division-specific and event-specific WhatsApp groups foster real-time communication among diplomats. Collaborative work is further streamlined using Google Sheets. These internal social media tools empower Indian diplomats with efficient communication and information sharing, promoting greater productivity.
India’s proactive approach to digital diplomacy is more comprehensive than its internal operations. It extends to its bilateral relations as well. The US-India Science and Technology Endowment Fund is a prime example of a joint technological initiative focused on critical research and development. Similarly, India collaborates with the European Union through the EU-India Joint Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Working Group and the Cyber Security Dialogue. These platforms serve as a foundation for conducting diplomatic engagements with a strong technological focus.
India’s ties with the U.K. have also significantly engaged in technological cooperation. The Clean Energy R&D Centre fosters the joint development of green and sustainable technologies. The NASSCOM-Tech UK alliance and the UK-India Tech Cluster programs further solidify this collaborative approach.
India’s digital diplomacy stands out for its comprehensive approach. From public engagement to internal collaboration and international partnerships, India actively acknowledges the involvement of technology in enhancing its diplomatic efforts. This unique approach positions India as a leader in digital diplomacy, setting it apart from other nations.
Conclusion:
Digital diplomacy has transformed the landscape of international relations. From its early roots in civil society activism and academic exploration to its status as a vital government tool, digital technologies have opened new avenues for communication, engagement, and collaboration. India’s proactive approach highlights digital diplomacy’s potential, be it utilising social media for public outreach, internal tools for enhanced communication or international partnerships on collaborative platforms.
While digital tools offer unprecedented reach and immediacy, the complexities of international relations cannot be solely addressed through social media. Traditional diplomacy, focusing on nuanced communication and relationship building, remains irreplaceable and upholds the higher trusted pavilion. By emphasising the importance of a balanced approach, we can reassure our audience and instill confidence in digital diplomacy’s future while acknowledging the enduring value of traditional diplomatic practices.
The future of digital diplomacy holds immense potential. By harnessing technology’s power while acknowledging its limitations, governments can navigate the complex landscape of international relations. This strategic integration of digital tools with traditional diplomatic practices fosters deeper connections, promotes understanding, and contributes to a more peaceful and cooperative world. This vision of digital diplomacy’s future inspires hope and underscores its importance globally.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Sharma, N. Digital Diplomacy: The Evolution of a New Era in Diplomacy. Research and Information Systems for Developing Countries.
https://ris.org.in/sites/default/files/2023-01/interns/topics/Nandika-Sharma.pdf.
Ray, Trisha and Deo, Akhil. Priorities for a Technology Foreign Policy for India.
https://www.orfonline.org/public/uploads/posts/pdf/20230511093836.pdf
Weil, Kevin. The Effect of Social Media on Elections: Evidence from the United States. Princeton University, https://www.princeton.edu/~fujiwara/papers/SocialMediaAndElections.pdf.
Social Media and India’s Digital Diplomacy: Lessons from Recent International Events. Indian Council of World Affairs
https://www.icwa.in/show_content.php?lang=1&level=3&ls_id=10333&lid=6588.
Author:
Kesa Zahera
Research associate, GAEE India
Editors:
Aidamon Talang
Editor-in-chief, GAEE India
Shruti Sangwan
Associate editor, GAEE India
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