The Future of Digital Diplomacy and Cyber Governance
Keywords:
Digital diplomacy, Cyber governance, Data security, Digital trust, Foresight, Global policyAbstract
Objective: This study aims to systematically review the existing literature to identify key themes, challenges, and emerging trends in the intersection of digital diplomacy and cyber governance worldwide.
Methods and Materials: This qualitative study employed a systematic review design. Data were collected through an extensive search of scientific databases including Scopus, Web of Science, Springer, and ScienceDirect. After screening, twelve articles with high conceptual relevance were selected for analysis. Data analysis was conducted using Nvivo 14 software through open, axial, and selective coding. The process continued until theoretical saturation was achieved, and findings were organized into three main themes with multiple subthemes.
Findings: The results revealed that the future of digital diplomacy involves a transformation in actors, tools, and structures—from traditional, state-centered diplomacy to a multilayered and networked model. Simultaneously, cyber governance is evolving toward polycentric collaboration among states, technology corporations, international institutions, and citizens. Three overarching themes emerged: transformation in digital diplomacy, cyber governance and data regulation, and the future of global interactions in the cyber era. Trust, ethics, transparency, and technological innovation were identified as crucial elements sustaining the future digital order.
Conclusion: The study concludes that digital diplomacy and cyber governance are becoming increasingly integrated, requiring coherent legal, ethical, and technological frameworks. Governments and international organizations must adopt a foresight-oriented approach to balance security, freedom, and transparency, thereby harnessing digital technologies to promote global cooperation and digital justice.
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References
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