| Digital diplomacy has become common concept over the last two decades,which describes the interaction between information and communication technologies(ICTs)and diplomatic activities.In recent years,China–US competition has evolved from economic and security domains into the realm of values and moral visions via digital diplomacy.Whereas competition over narratives is an increasingly apparent facet of the bilateral relationship,there is limited understanding of how it works in practice,beyond the high-level rhetoric,especially in non-Western contexts such as Africa in general and in Ethiopia in particular.Thus,this study aims to deploy and contextualize comparative analysis of digital diplomacy of both USA and China on Ethiopian Tigray conflict.By looking at the central themes of the digital platform’s content based on the qualitative thematic content analysis approach and interviews,this study revealed strategies,values,and implications of the US and Chinese governments’ digital diplomacy on the case study.In its use of digital diplomacy,the US has engaged in a range of condemnation and assistance messages on social media,while China has taken a different approach aimed at promoting diplomacy and peaceful resolution.Furthermore,non-interventionism,common interest or mutual benefit,creating harmonious world,South-South cooperation and regional development,and multi-polarity were the values reflected by China’s digital diplomacy.Whereas,the USA’s digital diplomacy tend to reflect broader US foreign policy values,such as promoting peace,human rights,democratic governance.The competition between the two actors on the case study could have long-term implications on the use of technology,and the building of allies,public opinion,peace and security. |
