INFORMATISATION OF SOCIETY AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: GLOBAL ASPECTS
11.09.2024 12:54
[2. Economic sciences]
Author: Rostyslav Gnylytsya, 3rd year student of Kyiv National University of Trade and Economics
The purpose of this study is to examine the global aspects of the informatisation of society and its impact on international relations. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of the transformation of state sovereignty in the context of digitalisation, the study of new forms of conflict, such as cyber conflicts, and the analysis of integration processes that are intensified by information technology.
Keywords: Informatisation, state sovereignty, cyber conflicts, information space, non-state actors, cybersecurity, disinformation, soft power, integration, globalisation.
Statement of the problem. The digital transformation of society stands out as a trend in todays world that has a profound impact across various facets of public existence such as global relations. The shift towards digitalization at a worldwide level influences state sovereignty,national security,economic equilibrium and the evolution of dynamics. Key issues linked to this transformation include the rise of cyber risks,the onset of cyber disputes,a shift in the understanding of sovereignty. An increasing involvement of non governmental entities, in global relations. Ensuring cybersecurity. Safeguardin the information space pose significant challenges for states, in the era of informatization.
In todays interconnected world where information technology is deeply embedded in every aspect of society nations are compelled to reassess fashioned methods of safeguarding their security and independence. The management of information flows has emerged as an element in global politics prompting a shift in how countries approach these matters. Topics like cyber defense strategies, regulation of the landscape and the influence of technology, on democratic practices continue to be pressing concerns underscoring the significance and urgency of this field of study.
Analysis of research and publications. The importance of informatisation of society in the context of state sovereignty is highlighted in numerous studies. Castells emphasises that the development of networked societies leads to decentralisation of power and an increased role of non-state actors such as transnational corporations and international organisations [1]. In this context, the state loses control over its information space, and the preservation of sovereignty increasingly depends on the ability to control information flows [7].
Kello's study highlights the importance of cyber conflicts as a new threat to international security. Cyber conflicts between states and non-state actors can lead to significant economic losses and destabilisation of political regimes [3, 6]. Studies also raise the issue of disinformation and propaganda through social media, which is an important component of cyber conflicts [6].
Benkler points out that informatisation promotes regional and global integration, especially in associations such as the European Union [4]. Information technology allows for new forms of cooperation and exchange, which strengthens integration processes. However, it also creates new challenges related to the regulation of the information space and the protection of national interests [5].
Ney emphasises the role of soft power, which depends on controlling information flows, in modern international relations [2]. This phenomenon allows non-state actors, including media companies and technology giants, to influence public opinion and political processes, which creates new challenges for state sovereignty.
Summary of the main material. The informatisation of society is significantly changing the concept of state sovereignty. In today's environment, states face new challenges, such as cyber threats and interference in the information space. For example, cyber conflicts are becoming one of the main challenges for international relations. They can include cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, electoral systems, and the use of disinformation.
The development of information technology also contributes to the strengthening of integration processes. This is particularly evident in the European Union, where information technology plays an important role in political and economic integration. Informatisation provides opportunities to create new forms of cooperation and mobilise the masses through social media, which can both promote democratisation and create conditions for manipulation and fake news.
States are forced to adapt to these new conditions, where control over information flows is becoming an important component of their sovereignty. At the same time, non-state actors are beginning to play a significant role in international relations, using information technologies to influence political decisions.
Conclusions. The increasing digitization of society has had a significant impact on international relations, transforming the nature of state sovereignty, the character of international conflicts, and facilitating integration processes. The growing importance of information technology requires states and international organizations to develop new approaches to ensuring international security and regulating information flows. For instance, cybersecurity has become a critical aspect of national security, and control over information flows is becoming one of the primary instruments for influencing international politics.
On the one hand, the informatisation of society promotes globalization and strengthens integration processes, which can contribute to the development of cooperation between states. On the other hand, it creates new challenges for state sovereignty and international security related to cyber threats and interference in the information space. Therefore, in today's environment, states must adapt to these new realities by developing effective strategies to ensure their security and protect national interests in the context of global informatisation.
References
1. Castells, M. (1996). The Information Age: Economy, Society and Culture. Volume 1: The Rise of the Network Society. Oxford: BlackwellPublishers. https://deterritorialinvestigations.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/manuel_castells_the_rise_of_the_network_societybookfi-org.pdf (Дата звернення: 30.08.2024)
2. Nye, J. S. (2004). Soft Power: The Means to Success in World Politics.https://www.academia.edu/28699788/Soft_Power_the_Means_to_Success_in_World_Politics_Joseph_S_Nye_Jr (Дата звернення: 02.09.2024)
3. Kello, L. (2013). The Meaning of the Cyber Revolution: Perils to Theory and Statecraft. International Security, 38(2), 7-40. https://ora.ox.ac.uk/objects/uuid:9cda2806-c771-4406-b466-727bfc0a141d/download_file?safe_filename=Kello%2BIS%2B38%2B2.pdf&file_format=application%2Fpdf&type_of_work=Journal+article (Дата звернення: 02.09.2024)
4. Benkler, Y. (2006). The Wealth of Networks: How Social Production Transforms Markets and Freedom. New Haven: Yale University Press. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/227620958_Yochai_Benkler_The_Wealth_of_Networks_How_Social_Production_Transforms_ Markets_and_Freedom (Дата звернення: 05.09.2024)
5. Ryan-Mosley, T. (2020). How the Digital Markets Act Shapes European Information Sovereignty. European Parliamentary Research Service.https://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/etudes/BRIE/2020/651992/EPRS_BRI(2020)651992_EN.pdf (Дата звернення: 07.09.2024)
6. Eggenschwiler, J. (2020). The Paris Call for Trust and Security in Cyberspace: Implications for International Relations and Sovereignty. The German Marshall Fund of the United States. https://www.gmfus.org/news/paris-call-and-activating-global-cyber-norms (Дата звернення: 07.09.2024)
7. Deibert, R., & Crete-Nishihata, M. (2023). The Politics of Cyber-Security.https://www.researchgate.net/publication/380840767_The_Politics_of_Cyber-Security (Дата звернення: 01.09.2024)
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Supervisor: Viktoriia Zalizniuk, Doctor of Sciences (Public Administration), Professor, Kyiv National University of Trade and Economics