The Impact of Digital Technology on International Relations: The Case of the War between Russia and Ukraine

Abstract

Background: The concept of a strong state is no longer measured by its military and economic strength, but also by the level of its ability to both defend against cyber-attacks and control cyberspace. During the Russian invasion of Ukraine, it became clear that modern technology had an active role on the ground. This research focuses on the role of modern technology in conflicts and as a key factor in relations between states. It has been proven that technology has led to the creation of new concepts in international relations - the concept of technological sanctions, electronic warfare, and so on. This paper will focus deeply on studying the impact of technology on international relations, and its role in war, peace and security. The researcher uses the Russian-Ukrainian war to support these ideas. Methods: In this paper, the researcher used an analytical and structural method to provide an in-depth perspective on the impact of new technology on international relations. Moreover, a case study on the war between Russia and Ukraine were deployed to explain how new technology is heavily involved in international relations. To support the ideas discussed in this paper, the author uses legal texts, international conventions, and official reports issued from national and international institutions. Result and Conclusion: In this paper, a comprehensive analysis of how IT has affected international relations has been presented. The researcher found that digital technology is considered a new international distribution of power and driving force in the social construction of war and peace. The paper also found that the war between Russia and Ukraine has proven that new technology is widely used in the conflict. The researcher also found that there is a binding legal framework to regulate the activities of the cyber domain. Moreover, new types of sanctions have been emerging internationally. During the conflict, new means of funding and new types of currency have been also been employed, which is considered a new challenge to international relations. The main finding of the paper is that new technology and cyberspace activities cannot be governed locally. The international community should involve civil actors in the governing and regulatory process of cyberspace.