Digital Diplomacy in South Asia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70670/sra.v4i1.2137Keywords:
Digital Diplomacy, South Asia, Cyber Diplomacy, Social Media, International Relations, Public Diplomacy, Soft PowerAbstract
Digital diplomacy has emerged as a transformative instrument in international relations, reshaping how states communicate, negotiate, and project soft power in the twenty-first century. In South Asia, digital diplomacy has become increasingly significant due to rapid technological advancement, growing internet penetration, geopolitical rivalries, and regional security challenges (Bjola & Holmes, 2015). This research paper examines the evolution, significance, opportunities, and challenges of digital diplomacy in South Asia, focusing on India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and Afghanistan. The study analyzes the role of social media, cyber diplomacy, e-governance, public diplomacy, and digital communication strategies in shaping regional diplomacy. It further explores how states use digital platforms to influence international narratives, engage diasporas, strengthen foreign policy objectives, and respond to regional crises. The paper argues that digital diplomacy has transformed traditional diplomatic practices by increasing accessibility, public engagement, and strategic communication. However, issues such as cyber warfare, misinformation, digital inequality, and political polarization continue to undermine regional cooperation. The study concludes that South Asian states must strengthen digital infrastructure, cyber governance, and regional collaboration to effectively utilize digital diplomacy for peace, development, and regional stability.
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