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The Role of Digital Media in Enhancing the Performance of Saudi Diplomacy: The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs as a Model
This study primarily aimed to identify the role of digital media, as one of the most important modern news tools, in developing the performance of Saudi diplomacy from the perspective of political and media elites. This was achieved by examining the factors that contribute to improving diplomatic performance and identifying the most significant obstacles preventing digital media from fulfilling its role as a tool for adopting a sophisticated Saudi foreign policy. The research also explored methods and means to enhance the effectiveness of digital media in its role within the diplomatic sphere. The researcher based her study on a group of media and political elites in Saudi Arabia, with a sample of (35) political and media figures. Data was collected through a questionnaire, then processed using the SPSS statistical analysis program, and the results were presented graphically using Excel. The results emphasized the importance of keeping pace with modern changes in diplomatic work through digital media, and that digital media has the ability to attract and persuade the public and followers regarding foreign affairs. Digital media can be used to establish a network of strong relationships that serve the interests of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and it is capable of clarifying facts and countering what some countries publish regarding foreign affairs. Digital content can be relied upon to serve the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's objectives in the diplomatic field. Digital media is considered a tool for disseminating Saudi policy abroad, and it is necessary to rely on diplomatic personnel capable of dealing with digital media, especially in the field of digital diplomacy. Saudi diplomatic discourse should surpass its counterparts in terms of influence and impact. The ideology and intellectual framework of digital media discourse should influence diplomatic performance, and the diversity in the use of digital media prioritizes excellence in Saudi diplomatic performance. The importance of training and developing qualified diplomatic personnel is crucial for advancing Saudi Arabia's foreign diplomacy. Attention should be paid to trainers in sectors outside the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as this contributes to the development of digital media and its performance in relation to Saudi foreign diplomacy. Employing Saudi diplomatic personnel with the ability and skills to utilize modern technologies is essential.
This includes: enhancing soft power and public image; direct and effective communication; crisis management and information dissemination; information and awareness campaigns; developing work mechanisms; updating tools and strategies; understanding the role of digital media in Saudi diplomacy; raising awareness and shaping public image; shaping the national narrative; reaching youth; effective communication and crisis management; rapid response; building bridges of communication; activating public diplomacy; building virtual communities; enhancing transparency and participation; engaging the public; Countering cyberattacks; and creating a platform for dialogue.
Keywords: Digital Media - Saudi Diplomacy - Saudi Foreign Ministry.
