Understanding cyber diplomacy through actor-network and securitisation theories

Abstract

This PhD thesis explores the extent in which cyber diplomacy could be developed to regulate cyberspace via a set of norms for facilitating cyberspace multistakeholder behaviours. The focus of this research is the phenomenon of cyber diplomacy which incorporates the use of diplomatic tools and mindsets to resolve issues arising from the international use of cyberspace.

The research aim is to examine cyber diplomatic actions in the context of international relations in cyberspace. This is achieved via an empirical investigation informed by two theoretical lenses: Actor-Network and Securitisation theories. Based on a qualitative approach, this research adopted a constructivist philosophy/worldview, with an exploratory view and a thematic analysis. In total, 42 semi-structured interviews were conducted with experts, including presidents, ambassadors, career diplomats, professional and technical experts from industry, private sector, academia, international organisations and civil society, across the world. Furthermore, 53 secondary cyber diplomacy data sources were analysed for additional insight.

The research contribution of this thesis is the development of a novel model of cyber diplomacy, promoting the idea that in cyber diplomacy there is an urgent need for multistakeholder cooperation. The model developed in this research can be used to analyse diplomatic relations in cyberspace. The empirical findings reveal the actors in cyber diplomacy with the help of Actor-Network Theory, including human actors (e.g., nation-states, companies, and NGOs), as well as non-human actors (e.g., technology, treaties, official documents or reports, protocols, and plans). The findings also highlight how the multiplicity of actors and other stakeholders in cyber diplomacy seek to achieve securitisation. Thereby, this thesis extends knowledge via a novel application of Actor-Network and Securitisation theories, as well as with a model of cyber diplomacy which can be used in practice, by applying it to real-world scenarios.

Date of Award	4 Nov 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Abertay University
Supervisor	Stefano De Paoli (Supervisor), Jacques Ophoff (Supervisor) & Karen Renaud (Supervisor)