The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Data Protection and Privacy of Diplomatic Information

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence has gained prominence in recent days as a result of its role and ability to contribute significantly to any sphere of work it is utilized in. In diplomacy, technological revolution has played a vital role in diplomatic affairs, and it has altered some aspects of diplomacy and made others more advanced in the course of diplomacy. It came with its own fears and concerns, with the most prominent being an interference of sovereignty using artificial intelligence and the more nascent one being fear for the privacy of diplomatic information and communications. It has also led to trade wars between some of the biggest economies in the world. This research searches for some of the impact of artificial intelligence on the diplomatic community, what aspects are already influenced by AI and how states and ministries of foreign affairs can adapt to emerging realities. It is recommended that more discussion by the international community be done to ensure that the provisions of the Vienna convention on diplomatic relations is adhered to and updated, international state actors must evolve governing rules that will direct the future development of AI. This research shows that with the advent of AI, and modern information technology, it has impacted the duty of diplomats in information-gathering and engaging in soft diplomacy directly to the people of the host countries. It has opened opportunities that hitherto were non-existent, and it has provided countries with capabilities to make better policy decisions based on reality.