New technological innovations have given birth to paradigms such as robotization, increased and advanced mechanization, and dehumanization of public diplomacy around the world. Other related developments have been the acceleration and growing popularization of the smart city concept as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, which have all combined to compel almost all major industries—including diplomacy—to shift online and to be revolutionized. The COVID-19 Pandemic and the Digitalization of Diplomacy explores the influences of the new ICTs, AI, and smart cultures on the conduct of public diplomacy. It further examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the conduct of digital diplomacy in the world and analyzes the implications of the dynamics of ICTs and AI for teaching and research in digital diplomacy. Covering topics such as defense diplomacy, the fourth industrial revolution, and technological determinism, this premier reference source is an essential resource for diplomats, politicians, government officials, ICT developers, students and educators of higher education, librarians, researchers, and academicians.

The purpose of this book is to project diplomacy as an unavoidable instrument for monitoring, prevention and control of health and disaster risks among African countries. The book advocates health cooperation in Africa at a time when pandemics are recurrent. Outside of the WHO, many countries, even within regional groupings have not actively pursued health cooperation. We intend this book to provide the basis for advocating the inclusion of health diplomacy in the curricula of the training of the African diplomat with the hope to stimulate gradual policy shifts in foreign ministries, regional groupings, and the African Union.

There are essential questions surrounding Africa's digitalization journey, including whether or not the continent can truly serve as the last frontier for socio-economic transformation through digital innovation. An examination of countries such as Ghana, Kenya, Senegal, and Rwanda, which are actively pursuing digitalization, may provide some answers. To evaluate the potential implications, both real and potential, that arise from this focused pursuit, a critical analysis is necessary. Scrutiny of digital infrastructure by companies like Huawei, the emergence of artificial intelligence, and the advent of quantum computing will open new pathways to understanding and establishing promising approaches to the advancement of this region. Examining the Rapid Advance of Digital Technology in Africa offers a comprehensive exploration of the transformative power of digitalization in Africa and its implications for the continent's socio-economic development. It engages with the field of science and technology studies, linking it with socio-economic impacts and transformation, to track, analyze, understand, and critique Africa's contributions to digitalization. The chapters cover a wide range of themes, including ICTs and the business environment, education, healthcare, creative industries, media, culture, tourism, agriculture, ecology, artificial intelligence, blockchain and cryptocurrency revolution, algorithmic governance, the quantum age, and urbanization. This book is a must-read for researchers, scholars, investors, and policymakers who are interested in Africa's digital transformation, as it offers valuable insights into the latest empirical and theoretical aspects shaping the continent's ongoing digitalization.

In this handbook, a group of 40 scholars and practitioners from some 30 countries takes a critical look at the contemporary practice of diplomacy. Many assume diplomacy evolves naturally, and that state- and non-state actors are powerless to make significant changes. But Diplomacy’s methods, its key institutions and conventions were agreed more than six decades ago. None take account of the opportunities and vulnerabilities presented by the Internet. Diplomacy is now a neglected global issue.The COVID pandemic and the invasion of Ukraine have highlighted some of the problems of diplomatic dysfunction. Beyond identifying current problems diplomacy is facing, the book also seeks to identify some practical options for reform and innovation. How might a process of reform be agreed and implemented? What role might the United Nations, regional organizations and Big Tech play? How can new norms of diplomatic behavior and methods be established in a multipolar, digital world where diplomacy is seen as less and less effective?

The handbook delves into the shifting power dynamics in diplomacy, exploring the establishment of embassies in technology hubs, the challenges faced by foreign affairs departments in adapting to digital technologies, and the utilization of digital tools as a means of exerting influence.

In an era marked by escalating economic, social, and military confrontations, diplomacy plays a crucial role in managing conflicts and fostering cooperation among nations. Effective diplomatic efforts are essential for mitigating tensions, building alliances, and addressing global challenges in a manner that promotes stability and mutual understanding. To avoid the follies of the 20th century and instill progressive plans toward a positive future for all, an updated and comprehensive view of diplomacy is essential. Innovations and Tactics for 21st Century Diplomacy offers a thorough overview of current diplomatic strategies, and invaluable insights for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners in international relations. By integrating the latest research with innovative approaches and historical contexts, these chapters encourage critical thinking and promote further exploration into effective diplomatic methods that promote global progress. Covering topics such as citizen diplomacy, foreign policy, and international tensions, this book is a valuable resource for diplomats, international relations professionals, graduate and postgraduate students, educators, policy makers, government officials, and more.

As the digital government field continues to evolve rapidly, scholars and professionals must stay ahead of the curve by developing innovative solutions and gaining comprehensive insights. The global landscape of digital governance is undergoing transformative shifts, necessitating a deep understanding of historical developments, current practices, and emerging trends. This urgent demand for knowledge forms the crux of the problem that the book, Emerging Developments and Technologies in Digital Government, addresses with expert knowledge and insights. The book serves as an indispensable resource for academic scholars grappling with the complexities of digital government. It critically examines historical transitions from technology-centric paradigms to people-centric models, shedding light on the global impact of open data initiatives and the vital role of human-computer interaction in reshaping government websites. For professionals and researchers across disciplines such as library sciences, administrative management, sociology, and information technology, this book becomes a beacon, offering insights and tangible solutions to navigate the multifaceted dimensions of digital government.

The book is very policy-oriented and fills an important gap in the literature on policies related specifically to the dialogue of civilisation in a globalized world. Deals with cross-cutting issues in economic integration, conflict management, human rights and sustainable development. Addresses challenges such as religious extremism, environmental problems, and political unrest.

This comprehensive Handbook offers an extensive overview of current knowledge of corporate communication from a digital perspective. It provides a state-of-the-art view of the ubiquitous impact, both positive and negative, of digital technologies and digitalisation processes on corporate communication.