Cyberspace as Diplomatic Arena: The Role of Data Analytics & OSINT as Resource of Diplomatic Practice in Security affairs

Starting with the assumption that evolving forms of diplomacy over time influenced international and security affairs significantly, raises questions about the impact of digitalisation. The latter appears in form of hybrid modes of diplomacy (online/offline): the use of digital resources in diplomatic practice, the fast pace of foreign policy agendas and a secure cyberspace as subject of negotiations and problem scenarios. Diplomatic practice is shaped by reciprocity based on observing world politics, accompanied by reflexion. In this sense, we are focussing on respective modes of observation shaped by digitalisation in security and defence. First, focussing on the role and value of Open Sources and Big Data in terms of Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) as information and decision-making tool of diplomatic practice and data analytics. Secondly, in terms of regulating the conduct of states and non-actors in favour of Cybersecurity as subject of defence diplomacy. OSINT is not new but received a significant boost through digital innovations. The volume of open source data is high, covers an increasing amount of social media activities of state and non-state actors, is cost-effective and easier to share. Starting by introducing a categorisation of OSINT capacities and operations, combined with a content-analysis of security strategies, we analyse the impact on structures, processes and discuss OSINT as diplomatic toolkit in the UN and NATO. As data analytics and OSINT provide insight in the behaviour of state and non-state actors in cyberspace, we refer to joint diplomatic responses: EU Cyber Diplomacy Toolbox, Ethics & Policies COs NATO.