The development of technology especially the cyber technology is changing or diversifying the way that traditional activities and systems are practicing. The advancement of technologies and new innovations is transforming activities in every sector. In this regard, the development of digital technology is easing worldwide interactions and communications. The diplomacy sector is one of the sectors
In a recent panel discussion organized at Diplomatic Week and Expo organized by Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia here in Addis Ababa at the Science Museum, Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute Director-General, Engineer Worku Gachena said that the diplomacy sector in today’s world demands acting beyond the traditional way of diplomacy. He said that “we are in an era of diplomacy that demands Digital Diplomacy.”
Presenting a paper entitled “Ethiopia’s current diplomacy and future trends of international relations visa-a-vis Artificial Intelligence,” Eng. Worku said that digital diplomacy is becoming important field in countries interaction with the rest of the world unlike the traditional way of diplomacy that demands sending envoys for each and every activity. As to him, understanding the development role of the digital sector in the field of diplomacy, it is vital to give due focus for the development of digital diplomacy.
“To become successful in digital diplomacy, it is vital to give due attention for the development of social media considering its role in today’s world. From the world population, 5.1 billion people uses internet and 4.8 billion uses social media,” Worku added. He also stated that from the 193 member states of the United Nations, 189 of the members are twitter (X) users and for countries it is important to consider this opportunity in interacting with the world.
“According to a survey conducted on 52 Ethiopia’s Embassies and Missions abroad, 50 of them have Facebook and 47 of them have twitter (X) and delivering different information using the platforms,” he stated. But, majority of the social media accounts of these institutions are unverified which needs an attention, according to him. The digital sector is an important platform to communicate and interact with the world and it is high time for Embassies, missions and other institutions that focus on the diplomacy sector to properly apply digital diplomacy to protect the country’s national interest.
As to him, Ethiopia’s digital diplomacy is in good beginning. But, it needs further efforts to properly exploit the digital sector in diplomacy. He recommends implementing digital diplomacy considering the cyber security issues in mind.
BY DARGIE KAHSAY
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 19 JANUARY 2024
