DIGITAL DIPLOMACY IN COUNTERING DISINFORMATION AND PROTECTING THE INFORMATION SPACE

Abstract

This article examines the role of digital diplomacy in countering disinformation and protecting the information space. In modern international relations, diplomatic communication increasingly relies on digital technologies, including social media, official websites, and online platforms, enabling governments and international organizations to communicate more effectively with global audiences. At the same time, the digital environment has become a major channel for the spread of disinformation, fake news, and manipulative narratives, posing significant challenges to information security. Using a qualitative research approach, the study applies literature review, comparative analysis, content analysis of official documents, and analytical synthesis. The findings demonstrate that digital diplomacy enables states to respond rapidly to false information, communicate official positions, strengthen public trust in credible sources, and reduce the impact of external information manipulation. The study concludes that digital diplomacy functions not only as an instrument of public diplomacy and soft power but also as an important mechanism for safeguarding the national information space and enhancing resilience against information threats.