The Digital Hybridization of Ministries of Foreign Affairs

Abstract

Drawing on assemblage theory, the chapter advances a novel theory of digital hybridization to explain the transformative impact of digital technology on the practice of diplomacy. We define digital hybridization as an ordering process by which new structures with a distinct internal logic (digital assemblages) are formed through the co-junction and co-evolution of digital and diplomatic components that ministries of foreign affairs (MFAs) combine in pursuit of their foreign policy objectives. After comparing the digital experience of six Nordic and Baltic MFAs, we have found evidence to distinguish between three different models of digital assemblages: the compact (Sweden and Denmark), the mosaic (Finland and Lithuania), and the canvas (Latvia and Estonia). The chapter contributes to the study of digital diplomacy by providing an account of how digital hybridization occurs, what happens as a result, and how digital diplomatic assemblages evolve.