Effects of Cyberspace Utilization by Kenyan State Officers on Foreign Relations (2013 - 2023)

Abstract

The rapid development of digital technologies into global governance has significantly affected the diplomacy landscape, making cyber use by state officers an essential area of study. While digital platforms have become important in diplomatic engagements and strategy, their use by government officials can have profound implications on a country's diplomatic relationships and international standing. This study, therefore, sought to examine the effects of cyberspace utilization by Kenyan State Officers on Foreign Relations in Kenya. The study was guided by three objectives: analyzing the cyberspace utilization trends by Kenyan state officers in foreign engagements, examining the effects of cyberspace utilization on foreign relations, and assessing the opportunities and risks presented by cyberspace use in diplomatic engagements in Kenya. The study relied on Actor-Network Theory and Digital Diplomacy theory. It was based on a qualitative approach that enabled collecting and analyzing qualitative information sourced through key informant interviews and secondary document analysis. The target population included Cabinet Secretaries, Permanent Secretaries, Directors, and Desk officers from the Ministries of East African Community, Foreign Affairs, and Defence. The study selected 31 respondents for the study based on purposive sampling. Content analysis discourse analysis was used to analyze the data sourced. The study established that 2013 to 2018 witnessed a rise in communication on cyberspace tools that predominantly sought to enhance the country's image emerging from the Hague cases. However, the period from 2019 to 2023 witnessed cyberspace use towards lobbying in various arenas for seats in international organizations. Cyberspace was used with implications for diaspora relations, foreign investment, state sovereignty, and state image. The risks of cyberspace use include cyber threats, disinformation, and incorrect use of cyberspace tools. Cyberspace also presents virtual representation, lobbying, and intelligence-gathering opportunities. The study suggests that state officers should refine their usage of cyberspace tools with dominant foreign relation objectives and ensure cyberspace communication is in congruence with the official foreign policy position of the state. Further, government ministries should protect state officers from cyber threats and disinformation risks by employing relevant measures. Finally, the state should take advantage of opportunities presented by cyberspace, such as virtual representation, virtual lobbying, and intelligence management. The study, therefore, fills the knowledge gap regarding the effects of cyber diplomacy use by state officers on foreign relations. The findings highlighted have significant implications for practice and future research, particularly in leveraging cyberspace to strengthen diplomatic efforts.