e-Diplomacy: a systematic literature review

Abstract

Digital diplomacy (also popularly known as e-Diplomacy), is generally defined as the use of information and communication technology for purposes of attaining foreign policy goals. Many experts have particularly defined digital diplomacy as an electronic component of public diplomacy. Although digital diplomacy is an emerging new field with a wide range of important applications in international relations, only a few previous studies have been conducted in this area. This has contributed to a significant research gap. The primary aim of this paper is to provide an analysis of the current e-diplomacy studies based on a systematic literature review research methodology. The results have highlighted two key findings. Firstly, most of the previous studies have been primarily conducted in North America and Europe. Secondly, the majority of studies adopted qualitative methods to gather new empirical evidence to support existing literature and develop new propositions on e-Diplomacy. Finally, based on the findings, the paper highlights a few areas in which further research may be needed in order to help develop the emerging concept of e-Diplomacy.