A Study On The Use Of Hybrid Diplomacy In Ethiopia During COVID 19

It has been learnt that hybrid diplomacy especially after the occurrence of the global pandemic has become the new norm of diplomatic activities across the world.Technological advancement enabled governments to undertake their diplomatic activities physically and virtually.Such a hybrid form of diplomacy is essential to keep international relations in good or trying times.Thanks to the technological advancement that brought digital diplomacy,countries have been in close contact undertaking their diplomatic meetings.This happening realized the application of hybrid diplomacy that could not be affected by natural disasters or other crises caused by human activity.Ethiopia is among the world countries that apply hybrid diplomacy during the COVID-19 times.The thesis investigated the application,impact and challenges of hybrid diplomacy by the Ethiopian government in line with the occurrence of the coronavirus pandemic.The researcher used diffusion innovation theory and actor network theory to study the communication proceedings among diplomats during the trying times of the pandemic.In this case,both qualitative and quantitative research methods are employed.The researcher used the combined version of qualitative and quantitative method to collect,analyze and interpret data.The findings from the analysis indicated that the government of Ethiopia has conducted successful hybrid diplomacy through physical and/or virtual meetings and practices.Therefore,undertaking productive international relation supported by hybrid diplomacy enabled the government of Ethiopia manifest its bold stance on the prevention of the pandemic,to mobilize resources,and to provide these resources to its citizens and other Africans.However,the study also identified that poor awareness of the new hybrid diplomatic approach;internet interruption and power outage are the major challenges faced the government while implementing hybrid diplomacy.Ethiopia has positive future to harvest the fruits of hybrid diplomacy if it advances in ICT and power infrastructure,applying human resource development in order to maximize the understanding and skill of diplomats on the implementation of hybrid diplomacy.It is advisable for the government to continue its solidarity with affable partners during trying times with due care of that such moves will not affect the national interests of the country.